“US Greenlights $400M Pact to Bolster Kuwait’s Patriot Air Defense System”

The U.S. Department of State has sanctioned a prospective USD 400 million transaction with Kuwait for the enhancement and recertification of its Patriot missile systems. This forthcoming international military sale will encompass equipment, maintenance solutions, training, and logistical assistance.

As reported by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the U.S. defense firm RTX has been designated as the primary contractor for this arrangement. The agency affirmed that the deal would not impact the military equilibrium in the Middle East nor negatively influence U.S. defense preparedness.

Kuwait presently utilizes Patriot PAC-2 Guidance Enhanced Missiles (GEM) and GEM-T (Guidance Enhanced Missiles–Tactical). These systems constitute a vital element of the nation’s aerial defense strategy.

The PAC-2 GEM missiles are engineered to intercept and eliminate incoming dangers such as tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft. They employ high-explosive blast fragmentation warheads to neutralize airborne threats.

GEM-T missiles, a variant of PAC-2, provide superior detection of low radar signature targets and enhanced detonation capabilities. These enhancements render them more effective against contemporary ballistic missile challenges.

The proposed transaction includes all necessary components for the Patriot PAC-2 GEM upgrade and the recertification of GEM-T missiles. Kuwait has also sought related support services like maintenance, repair, and personnel training.

“This proposed sale will advance the foreign policy and national security aims of the United States by aiding in the bolstering of a Major Non-NATO Ally’s security,” the State Department stated in its announcement. It further noted that the sale would “strengthen the interoperability of Kuwait’s forces with U.S. and other regional partners.”