The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress May 24 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the United Arab Emirates for support and maintenance of F-16 aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $100 million.

The Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has requested a possible sale of support and maintenance of classified and unclassified F-16 aircraft systems and munitions, spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, ground support, communications equipment, U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services, tools and test equipment, and other related elements of program support. The estimated cost is $100 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by meeting the legitimate security and defense needs of a partner nation that has been, and continues to be, an important force for peace, political stability, and economic progress in the Middle East.

The UAE Air Force and Air Defense (AF&AD) continue to operate the F-16 Block 60 aircraft and previously purchased munitions and support equipment. Providing follow-on support for the UAE’s F-16 aircraft and munitions stockpile will ensure operational capability and facilitate UAE AF&AD improvement toward becoming one of the most capable air forces in the region.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

There is no prime contractor for this sale or any known offset agreements proposed in connection with this sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale may require the assignment of additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the UAE. The number and duration will be determined in joint negotiations as the program proceeds through the development, production, and equipment installation phases.

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 and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

DSCA press release