France wants U.S. supply of Hellfire missiles

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- France is seeking to purchase 200 Hellfire missiles from the United States to support operations against Islamist insurgents in Mali and Northern Africa.

The tactical weapons would be carried by France's Tiger attack helicopters, providing the capability to engage targets with minimal collateral damage.

The missiles would be supplied from existing U.S. Army stock and not from a defense contractor, the U.S. Defense and Security Cooperation Agency said.

DSCA is the Pentagon agency that manages the U.S. Foreign Military Sale program. It made its disclosure of the possible French sale in a required notification to Congress.

It said the sale, worth a total of $30 million, had passed muster with the U.S. State Department.

In addition to the 200 missiles, France is also seeking Hellfire missile kits, associated equipment, parts and logistical support.