WASHINGTON, December 10, 2008 On Dec. 9, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq of (20) 30-35meter Coastal Patrol Boats and (3) 55- 60 meter Offshore Support Vessels as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $1.010 billion.
The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of (20) 30-35meter Coastal Patrol Boats and (3) 55- 60 meter Offshore Support Vessels, each outfitted with the Seahawk MS1-DS30MA2 mount using a 30 x 173mm CHAIN gun and short range Browning M2-HB .50 cal machine gun, spare and repair parts, weapon system software, support equipment, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $1.010 billion.
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. This proposed sale directly supports the Iraq government and serves the interests of the Iraq people and the U.S.
The sale of these patrol boats and support vessels will enhance the ability of the Iraqi naval forces to sustain themselves in their efforts to bring stability to their country, prevent overflow of unrest into neighboring countries, and protect their maritime oil platforms and territorial waters.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor is unknown at this time, however, acquisition is subject to FAR and DFARS domestic sourcing requirements. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this sale will require the assignment of two contractor representatives in Iraq for a period of 8 years.
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.
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