The US State Department has approved three potential military sales to partners in the Middle East. They include a package of guided munitions worth about $1 billion for the United Arab Emirates, repair services for Kuwait’s Patriot systems, and a proposed Javelin missile sale to Egypt valued at $832 million.
The approvals allow the proposals to move forward, but the prices and quantities may change as negotiations proceed. US lawmakers may also seek to block or alter any of the sales.
UAE: Up to 10,000 Guidance Kits
The potential $1 billion deal with the UAE could include up to 10,000 Advanced Precision Kill System-II guidance sections, along with other related equipment and services. The systems turn rockets into guided munitions for air-to-air and air-to-ground use.
In May, the UAE had requested up to 1,500 APKWS systems. The latest notification does not mention Iran, but comes as the United States and its allies seek relatively low-cost ways to intercept drones and other incoming threats following the outbreak of regional hostilities in February.
The State Department said the proposed sale would help the UAE maintain a strong self-defense capability and improve interoperability with US forces.
Kuwait: $400 Million for Patriot Repairs
Kuwait has requested repair and return services for Patriot missiles, along with related equipment and services, in a potential deal valued at $400 million.
The country has operated the Patriot system since the 1990s and has faced Iranian attacks in recent months. In early March, an attack on Kuwait killed six US service members.
The US notification does not refer to Iran. It says the repairs would improve Kuwait’s ability to address current and future threats and help protect critical oil and natural gas infrastructure.
Egypt: Javelin Missiles and Launch Units
The third approved proposal concerns Egypt and is valued at $832 million. It could include up to 2,020 Javelin missiles, 200 launch units and associated equipment.
The State Department said the sale would support US foreign policy and national security objectives, while improving the security of a country it described as an important force for political stability and economic growth in the Middle East.
Figures and Quantities May Change
The values and quantities announced for foreign military sales are not final. They may be revised during negotiations, and US lawmakers can seek to block or modify the proposed deals.
