The US State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Bahrain of equipment and services to refurbish Excess Defense Article (EDA) AH-1W multi-role helicopters. The estimated total cost is $350 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on 29 March 2023.

The Government of Bahrain has requested to buy equipment and services to refurbish twenty-four (24) Excess Defense Article (EDA) AH-1W multi-role helicopters. Included are services to refurbish a full-motion Aircraft Procedures Trainer (APT), M272A1 missile launchers and spare T-700-GE-401 aircraft engines, spare parts, support, training, publications, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $350 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a Major Non-NATO ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.

The proposed sale will improve Bahrain’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its ability to fulfill maritime patrol, close air support, and search and rescue missions. Bahrain will have no difficulty absorbing these defense articles and services into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of these services and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be Bell Corporation, Fort Worth, TX. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Bahrain.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law. The description and dollar value is for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.

Source: Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA); File Photo: Bahrain Air Force AH-1F Helicopter