WASHINGTON, March 13, 2009 –

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Mexico of five Bell 412EP Helicopters, spare and repair parts, support equipment, ferry services, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, contractor engineering and technical support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $93 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve Mexico’s fight against criminal organizations, drugs, and gang activities. This proposed sale directly supports the Mexican government and serves the interests of the Mexican people and the U.S.

The proposed sale of the helicopters will increase the Mexican Air Force’s air capabilities to support its interdiction activities, rapid response of law enforcement in Mexico, and support for the civilian population in natural disasters.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor is Bell Helicopter in Fort Worth, Texas. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U. S. Government personnel in country. One U.S. Government and one contractor representative will travel to Mexico three times per year, one week per trip for a period of three years to provide logistic support services.
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; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.

Source: DSCA