The U.S. State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of C-17 Aircraft Sustainment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $980.4 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on 19 July 2022.
The Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has requested to buy follow-on sustainment and support of C-17 fleet to include aircraft hardware and software modifications and support; Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) software; classified software support for Electronic Warfare (EW) self-protection; aircraft and engine support equipment, components, consumables, spare parts and repair/return; publications and technical documentation; heavy maintenance support; participation in the C-17 Virtual Fleet for Total System Sustainment (TSS) contractor logistics support and Material Improvement Program (MIP); other U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support services; and other related elements of program support. The total estimated cost is $980.4 million.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of an important regional partner. The UAE has been, and continues to be, a vital U.S. partner for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.
The proposed renewal of C-17 aircraft support will provide the Government of the UAE with a credible defense capability, provide strategic and humanitarian airlift, and ensure interoperability with U.S. forces. The UAE already operates the C-17 and will have no difficulty absorbing the additional sustainment into its armed forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The prime contractor will be The Boeing Company, Chicago, Illinois. The purchaser typically requests offsets. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.
Implementation of this proposed sale may require the assignment of up to twelve (12) U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the UAE. Implementation of this proposed sale will require periodic Program Management Reviews in the United States or in the UAE.
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; File Photo: UAE Air Force Boeing C-17A Globemaster III Military Cargo Aircraft
