Thousands of Hellfire missiles for UAE

WASHINGTON, May 16 (UPI) -- Thousands of AGM-114 R/K Hellfire Category III missiles are being sought by the United Arab Emirates from the United States.

The air-to-surface missiles, as well as training and technical assistance, would be acquired through a U.S. Foreign Military Sales deal worth an estimated $476 million.

The supply of the missiles, approved by the U.S. State Department, would take place in increments over three years, said the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which manages the FMS program.

"This proposed sale will enhance the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a partner country, which has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East," it said in its notification to Congress.

"The proposed sale will improve the UAE's capability to meet current and future threats and provide greater security for its critical infrastructure. The UAE will use the enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defense."