WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- The United Arab Emirates is seeking a $270 million deal from the United States for equipment in support of its commercial purchase of F-16 Block 61 aircraft.
As well as equipment to support its acquisition of the fighters, the Foreign Military Sales package requested includes equipment to support the upgrade of its existing F-16 Block 60 aircraft fleet, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in its notification to Congress.
"The proposed sale will improve the UAE's capability to meet current and future regional threats," the agency said. "The UAE continues host-nation support of vital U.S. forces stationed at al-Dhafra Air Base, plays a vital role in supporting U.S. regional interests, and has proven to be a valued partner and an active participant in overseas contingency operations."
The equipment requested includes 40 20mm M61A guns, 40 embedded GPS inertial navigation systems, joint mission planning system, night vision devices, cartridge activated device/propellant activated devices, spare and repair parts, tools and test equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation.
Logistics and program support was also requested.
The principal contractor will be Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. U.S. government or contractor representatives would be required in the UAE if the sale is approved, the agency said.
