The State Department has approved a possible $500 million deal with Saudi Arabia to provide continued support for the country’s Patriot missile defense systems.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress on Jan. 17 of the foreign military sale (FMS).
Saudi Arabia has requested continued assistance and support for its Patriot Legacy Field Surveillance Program (FSP), its Patriot Advanced Capability 3 FSP and its Patriot Engineering Services Program (ESP).
Under the FMS, Saudi Arabia would also receive spare parts for its Patriot and HAWK missile systems, and further logistical support services.
“This proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by helping to improve the security of a friendly country which has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic growth in the Middle East,” the DSCA wrote in a statement.
The principal contractors for the deal are Lockheed Martin [LMT] for the FSP and Raytheon [RTN] for the ESP.