Emirates seek F-16 support

WASHINGTON, May 27 (UPI) -- The United Arab Emirates is seeking support and maintenance of classified and unclassified F-16 aircraft systems and munitions.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in a notification to Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale, said the transaction would be worth $100 million.

Included in the sale would be spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, ground support, communications equipment, U.S. government and contractor technical and logistics support services, tools and test equipment and other related elements of program support.

DSCA said "this proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by meeting the legitimate security and defense needs of a partner nation that has been, and continues to be, an important force for peace, political stability, and economic progress in the Middle East."

The Emirates' air force and air defense operate F-16 Block 60 aircraft and previously purchased munitions and support equipment. Providing follow-on support for the Emirates' F-16 aircraft and munitions stockpile will ensure operational capability and facilitate the United Arab Emirates' air force and air defense improvement toward becoming one of the most capable air forces in the region.

Additional U.S. government or contractor representatives would need to be sent to the United Arab Emirates, with the number and duration determined in joint negotiations as the program proceeds through the development, production, and equipment installation phases, the agency said.