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Australia requests C-17 buy

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Australia has asked the United States for the sale of one C-17 Globemaster III aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in its notification to Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale, said the entire package would be worth $300 million and include one C-17 Globemaster III aircraft; up to four Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 engines; one AN/AAQ-24V(13) Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures System; spare and repair parts, supply and test equipment, personnel training and training equipment.

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Also included would be publications and technical documentation, U.S. government and contractor engineering, logistics, and technical support services, and other related logistics support.

"Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific," the agency said. "The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region.

"Australia's efforts in Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, and peacekeeping, and humanitarian operations have made a significant impact on regional, political, and economic stability and have served U.S. national security interests."

Australia has five C-17As and the addition "will further improve Australia's capability to rapidly deploy in support of global coalition operations and will greatly enhance its ability to lead regional humanitarian/peacekeeping operations," the agency said.

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The prime contractor would be the McDonnell Douglas Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of Boeing, in Long Beach, Calif.

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