The U.S. State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of TOW 2A tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided, radio frequency missiles (BGM-71E-4B-RF), TOW 2B tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided, radio frequency missiles (BGM-71F-3-RF), and support and related elements of logistics and program support for an estimated cost of $440 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on 24 October 2024.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has requested to buy five hundred seven (507) tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided (TOW) 2A, radio frequency (RF) missiles (BGM-71E-4B-RF) (including 7 “fly-to-buy” missiles); and five hundred seven (507) TOW 2B, RF missiles (BGM-71F-3-RF) (including 7 “fly-to-buy” missiles). The following non-MDE is also included: support and test equipment; simulators; generators; integration and test support; spare and repair parts; communications equipment; software delivery and support; facilities and construction support; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training equipment; support equipment; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; studies and surveys; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $440 million.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region.
The proposed sale will improve the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing the strength of its homeland defense. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor will be RTX Corporation located in Tucson, Arizona. The purchaser typically requests offsets. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.
Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government and contractor representatives to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
The description and dollar value are 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: TOW Missile System © U.S. Army
