Saudi Arabia Unveils Cutting-Edge Low-Volume Terminals for Advanced Information Distribution System
The U.S. Department of State has reached a conclusion endorsing a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) and associated apparatus, estimated to cost $23.7 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) provided the essential certification informing Congress of this potential transaction on 03 February 2022.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has sought to acquire thirty-one (31) Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) Block Upgrade 2 (BU2), which will be integrated into a previously established case. The original Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case, appraised at $3.0 million, encompassed eleven (11) Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) Block Upgrade 1 (BU1). Consequently, this notification pertains to a total of eleven (11) Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) Block Upgrade 1 (BU1) and thirty-one (31) Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) Block Upgrade 2 (BU2). Additionally included are communication apparatus; support devices; engineering and technical assistance; training; and various related logistics and program support components. The overall estimated expense is $23.7 million.
This proposed transaction will bolster U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by enhancing the security of a friendly nation that remains a significant catalyst for political stability and economic development in the Middle East.
The suggested sale will equip the Saudi armed forces with the necessary apparatus, training, and ongoing support to safeguard Saudi Arabia and the region from the destabilizing impacts of terrorism, countering Iranian influence, and other dangers. The proposed MIDS-LVT (BU2) terminals will be deployed on Terminal High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD) platforms, whereas the prior MIDS-LVT (BU1) terminals were installed on PATRIOT. Saudi Arabia is expected to seamlessly integrate this equipment into its military forces.
This proposed sale of equipment and support will not disrupt the fundamental military balance within the region.
The primary contractor remains unidentified as a competitive bidding process will follow LOA implementation. No known offset agreements are being proposed concerning this prospective sale.
Executing this transaction will not necessitate the deployment of any U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Saudi Arabia.
There will be no detrimental effect on U.S. defense readiness as a consequence of this prospective sale.
This notification of a possible sale is mandated by law. The description and financial value are aimed at the highest estimated quantity and dollar amount based on preliminary requirements. Actual financial value will likely decrease based on final needs, budget authority, and signed sales agreements, if and when finalized.
Defense Security Cooperation Agency
