U.S. Greenlights Potential C-17 Aircraft Support Deal with UAE
The State Department has rendered a decision endorsing a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the United Arab Emirates for C-17 Aircraft Sustainment and associated equipment, estimated at a cost of $980.4 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has provided the necessary certification informing Congress about this prospective sale today.
The Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has put forth a request to acquire follow-on sustainment and assistance for the C-17 fleet, which includes aircraft hardware and software modifications, Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) software, classified software support for Electronic Warfare (EW) self-protection, aircraft and engine support equipment, components, consumables, spare parts, and repair/return services; publications and technical documentation; heavy maintenance support; participation in the C-17 Virtual Fleet for Total System Sustainment (TSS) contractor logistics support and Material Improvement Program (MIP); as well as additional U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support services, alongside other related program support elements. The total projected cost is $980.4 million.
This proposed transaction will foster the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by bolstering the security of a key regional ally. The UAE has been, and remains, an essential U.S. collaborator for political stability and economic development in the Middle East.
The proposed continuation of C-17 aircraft support will equip the Government of the UAE with a robust defense capability, facilitate strategic and humanitarian airlift operations, and ensure seamless interoperability with U.S. forces. The UAE is already operating the C-17 and will experience no difficulties in integrating the added sustainment into its armed forces.
The suggested sale of this equipment and support will not disrupt the fundamental military equilibrium in the region.
The primary contractor will be The Boeing Company, based in Chicago, IL. The purchaser typically seeks offsets, with any offset agreement to be defined during negotiations between the purchaser and contractor.
The execution of this proposed sale may necessitate the assignment of up to twelve (12) U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the UAE. The implementation of this sale will entail periodic Program Management Reviews either in the United States or in the UAE.
There will be no detrimental impact on U.S. defense readiness due to this proposed sale.
This announcement of a potential sale is mandated by law. The description and monetary value reflects the highest estimated quantity and cost based on preliminary requirements. The actual monetary value may be lower, contingent on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when finalized.
Source: Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA)
