FMS: Bahrain F-16 Logistics Support

Released on Thursday, July 21, 2005

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Government of Bahrain of continuing logistics support services/equipment for the F-16 aircraft and related components as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $150 million.

The Government of Bahrain has requested a possible sale of continuing logistics support services/equipment for the F-16 aircraft, ALR-69 radar warning receiver, ALQ-131 electric countermeasure pods, radar systems, and engines. The possible sale also includes support equipment, aircraft engine services/modification, repair/return services; depot level repair support; precision measurement equipment laboratory calibration, spare and repair parts, support equipment, supply support; personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, contractor technical services and other related elements of logistics support and to ensure aircraft operational availability. The estimated cost is $150 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East. These defense articles and services are required to maintain the operational readiness of the Royal Bahrain Air Force. The Government of Bahrain needs the technical, maintenance, and logistical services to maintain the operational capabilities of its F-16 aircraft radar systems and engines previously procured from the United States.

This proposed sale will permit Bahrain to order spares, obtain needed repairs and technical guidance on maintaining existing systems, but will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The principal contractors will be: General Electric Aircraft Engines of Cincinnati, Ohio and Lockheed-Martin Tactical Aircraft Systems of Fort Worth, Texas.

There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. There will be no new US Government personnel in-country, but five contractor representatives have been in-country since 1991. There will be no adverse impact on US defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.