The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), on Wednesday, informed Congress about a possible foreign military sale (FMS) of AH-1W refurbishment and services to Bahrain, after approval from the US State Department.
The FMS package is expected to cost $350 million and will involve the delivery of equipment and services to upgrade 24 AH-1W Super Cobra multi-role helicopters. Bahrain’s government also requested to procure equipment and services for the refurbishment, stated the DSCA.
The proposed purchase also included the refurbishment of a full-motion Aircraft Procedures Trainer (APT), spare T-700-GE-401 aircraft engines, M272A1 missile launchers, spare parts, training, support, publications, and other related logistics and program support. The projected total cost of the transaction is $350 million.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Bell, a subsidiary of Textron (NYSE: TXT), has been selected as the main contractor for the proposed agreement.
The DSCA further stated that the execution of the FMS will not require the deployment of US government and contractor representatives to Bahrain.
Upon implementation, the new FMS agreement is anticipated to boost Bahrain’s military capabilities to counter and deter current and potential adversaries. The overhauled platform will enable Bahrain’s forces to carry out a range of missions, such as search and rescue (SAR), maritime patrol, and close air support.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US, 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 DSCA stated.
“The proposed sale of these services and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”
In the previous month, Bell Textron accomplished the delivery of the final AH-1Z Viper production aircraft constructed for Bahrain.