WASHINGTON, November 19, 2009 – The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Nov. 18 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Italy of two unarmed MQ-9 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), one Mobile Ground Control Station and associated parts, equipment and logistical support worth approximately $63 million.
The Government of Italy has requested a possible sale of two unarmed MQ-9 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), one Mobile Ground Control Station, maintenance support, engineering support, test equipment, ground support, operational flight test support, communications equipment, technical assistance, personnel training/equipment, spare and repair parts, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $63 million.
Italy is a major political and economic power in NATO and a key democratic partner of the United States in ensuring peace and stability around the world.
Italy requests these capabilities to provide for the defense of deployed troops, regional security, and interoperability with the United States. This program will increase Italy’s ability to contribute to future NATO, coalition, and anti-terrorism operations that the U.S. may undertake. By acquiring this capability, Italy will be able to provide greater protection for its forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. Italy will have no difficulty absorbing these additional aircraft into its armed forces.
The principal contractors will be:
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. San Diego, California
Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems El Segundo, California
General Atomics Lynx Systems San Diego, California
There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Italy.
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 and does not mean the sale has been concluded.
-30-