Egypt approved for Harpoon missile buy

WASHINGTON, May 16 (UPI) -- Egypt's procurement of Harpoon missiles for its submarines through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program has gained State Department approval.

The U.S. defense Security Cooperation Agency, which administers the FMS program, notified Congress that the possible deal carries a value of about $141 million.

The sale would include 20 UGM-84L Harpoon Block II encapsulated missiles, two encapsulated Harpoon certification training vehicles and equipment such as containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, plus logistics support.

"The proposed sale of these submarine-launched missiles will support the Egyptian Navy's Type 209 submarines, increasing its anti-surface warfare and maritime security capabilities," the agency said.

The prime contractor for the sale would be Boeing. Annual trips to Egypt involving U.S. government and contractor representatives for technical reviews, support, and oversight would be required for about five years.