The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress on January 23 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for equipment in support of a Direct Commercial Sale of F-16 Block 61 Aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $270 million.

The UAE has requested a possible sale of equipment in support of its commercial purchase of 30 F-16 Block 61 aircraft and to support the upgrade of its existing F-16 Block 60 aircraft.  

Major Defense Equipment includes:  40 20mm M61A Guns; and 40 Embedded GPS Inertial Navigation Systems.  Also included:  Identification Friend or Foe Equipment; Joint Mission Planning System; night vision devices; Cartridge Activated Device/Propellant Activated Devices; Weapons Integration; spare and repair parts; tools and test equipment; personnel training and training equipment; publications and technical documentation; International Engine Management Program-Component Improvement Program; repair and return; aerial refueling support; ferry maintenance and services; site surveys; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support.  

The proposed sale will improve the UAE’s capability to meet current and future regional threats.  The UAE continues to be a host-nation support of vital U.S. forces stationed at Al Dhafra Air Base; plays a vital role in supporting U.S. regional interests; and has proven to be a valued partner and an active participant in overseas contingency operations.

The sale of additional F-16s to the UAE is consistent with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives.  The UAE will have no difficulty absorbing this additional equipment and support into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of equipment, services, and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region, according to DSCA.

The main contractor will be Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Ft. Worth, Texas.  There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.  

Implementation of this sale will require the assignment of additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the UAE.  The actual number required to support the program will be determined in joint negotiations as the program proceeds through the development, production, and equipment installation phases.
 
This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.