Emirates seeks Hellfire missiles

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- The United Arab Emirates is seeking to buy 500 AGM-114R3 Hellfire missiles from the United States.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in its notification to Congress, said the possible purchase would include missile containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, repair and return support, training equipment and personnel training, U.S. government and contractor logistics, quality assurance support services, engineering and technical support and other related elements of program support.

The estimated cost is $65 million.

The Emirates intends to use the defense articles and services to modernize its armed forces and expand its existing army architecture to counter threats posed by potential attack, the agency said.

"This proposed sale will also contribute to the United Arab Emirates' military's goal of updating its capability while further enhancing its interoperability with the U.S. and other allies," the agency said.

The prime contractor is Hellfire Systems Ltd. in Orlando, Fla. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with the sale.