$5 Billion Arms Deal: US Approves Sale of JDAM-ERs to Saudi Arabia
The US State Department has approved a $5 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia, involving the sale of Joint Direct Attack Munitions-Extended Range (JDAM-ER) to bolster the kingdom's defense capabilities.
The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia's ability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its readiness and interoperability with US forces, according to the State Department. Boeing and Honeywell will serve as principal contractors for the JDAM-ERs and AGT-150 engines, respectively.
In addition to the deal with Saudi Arabia, Washington has also approved separate sales to Oman and Iraq. The $188 million sale of F-16 aircraft sustainment services to Muscat is aimed at supporting operational requirements, while a potential sale worth $150 million for Iraq to purchase Bell 412EPX helicopters will enhance bilateral contingency plans.