“USA Approves $2.2 Billion Arms Agreement with Saudi Arabia and UAE”
The U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) has disclosed that the Department of State has authorized the transfer of weapons and ammunition to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, with an overall valuation exceeding $2.2 billion.
According to separate press announcements issued by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Saudi Arabia has been granted the go-ahead to acquire Hellfire II missiles priced at $655 million, along with ordnance for artillery systems, automatic firearms, and armored vehicles totaling approximately $139 million, in addition to missiles and associated support services valued at $252 million. The UAE has also been approved for a potential arms deal worth $1.2 billion.
The specifics of the UAE deal include the purchase of 259 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), 1,554 M31A1 rockets, and 203 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS). This arrangement further encompasses training programs, software development, and engineering as well as logistical support services.
For Saudi Arabia, the initial deal included consent for the sale of 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles valued at $252 million, which incorporates training, technical, and logistical support initiatives. The subsequent deal covered artillery systems, automatic firearms, armored vehicles, and additional equipment worth $139 million, featuring 10,000 M456 105mm anti-tank rounds, alongside various ammunition types for tanks, howitzers, automatic firearms, and hand grenades. The third agreement pertained to the sale of 2,503 AGM-114R3 Hellfire II missiles, along with critical technical and logistical support services.
The declaration underscored that these agreements will advance U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the protection of vital regional allies, promoting political stability, and facilitating economic progress in the Middle East.
Moreover, this will enhance the capabilities of Saudi Arabia and the UAE in managing current and future threats through the modernization of their armed forces. The statements verified that these agreements and the corresponding support “will not alter the essential military balance in the region.”
