FMS: The Philippines Seeks High Frequency/Very High Frequency Radio Systems

Released on Tuesday, June 05, 2007

WASHINGTON, June 5, 2007 - The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Philippines of Harris High Frequency/Very High Frequency (VHF) Radios as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $96 million.

The Government of the Philippines has requested a possible sale of Harris High Frequency/Very High Frequency (VHF) radio systems, which include 6,356 Advanced Tactical VHF Handheld radio systems, 2,019 20-Watt High Frequency Man Pack radio systems, ancillary equipment, spare and repairs parts, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics services and other related elements of program support. The estimated cost is $96 million.

This proposed sale is consistent with the foreign policy and national security of the U.S. as it helps 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 Asia Pacific region.

This proposed sale will assist the Philippines in fulfilling its strategic commitments to the U.S. by assisting its efforts to destabilize transnational terrorists' strongholds within its borders; and by improving communications ability and internal command and control while operating in the country's mountain ranges. The Philippines will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractor is Harris Corporation of Rochester, New York. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

The number of U.S. Government personnel and contractor representatives required in-country to support the program will be determined in joint negotiations as the program proceeds through the development and equipment installation phases.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. 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.