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The government of Bahrain will acquire four M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and tactical data systems under a possible US foreign military sale worth US$500 million.
The US Congress was notified of the possible foreign military sale, approved by the US State Department and by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 14 August this year.
Under the possible sale, Bahrain would acquire the four HIMARS as well as three International Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems, M28A2 Low Cost Reduced Range Practice Rocket Pods, M1084A3 HIMARS resupply vehicles, HIMARS Driver Vision Enhancer systems and High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle Fire Direction Centers.
The sale would also include support and test equipment, an AN/PSN-13 Defense Advanced GPS Receiver, integration and test support, spares and repair parts, communications equipment, personnel training and training equipment, technical and logistics support services.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East,” according to statement published by the US DSCA.
“The proposed sale will improve Bahrain’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its ability to provide critical support for the security of US installations and personnel in Bahrain, integrate into US‐led coalitions, and to operate independently in support of US interests and the security of US forces in-theatre.
“Bahrain will have no difficulty absorbing these articles into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. There will be no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”
Lockheed Martin is expected to be the principal contractor and the proposed sale is expected to require assignment of five additional US government and 10 US contractor representatives for a duration of four months to support equipment set-up and provide operator and maintenance training.
