Saudis seeks military aircraft support

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WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency reports that Saudi Arabia has requested follow-on support and services for its military aircraft.

The deal, if approved by Congress, would include support and services for aircraft, engines and weapons; publications and technical documentation; airlift and aerial refueling; support equipment; and spare and repair parts.

Other components include repair and return; personnel training and training equipment; U.S. government and contractor technical and logistics support services; and related logistics.

The value of the deal, which would be provided under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, is about $850 million.

"Saudi Arabia needs this follow-on support to continue to procure maintenance and logistical support in order to sustain the combat and operational readiness of its existing aircraft fleet," the agency said in its notification to Congress.

"The proposed sale of this support and services will not alter the basic military balance in the region."