Kuwait - Nautilus Class Diver Support Vessels

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Media/Public Contact
Lorna Jons (703) 604-6618
Transmittal No
09-24

WASHINGTON, July 14, 2009 ­ On July 13, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Kuwait of four M2 .50 cal HB Browning machine guns, two Swiftship Model 176DSV0702, 54X9.2X1.8 meter Nautilus Class Diver Support Vessels outfitted with a MLG 27mm gun system, and other related services and equipment. The estimated cost is $81 million.

The Government of Kuwait has requested a possible sale of four M2 .50 cal HB Browning machine guns, two Swiftship Model 176DSV0702, 54X9.2X1.8 meter Nautilus Class Diver Support Vessels outfitted with a MLG 27mm gun system, support equipment, personnel training, spare and repair parts, publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics personnel services, and other related elements of program support.

This proposed sale would contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major Non-NATO ally that has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East. Additionally, the proposed sale will demonstrate the U.S. Government's commitment to our bilateral relationship.

Kuwait needs these vessels to strengthen its tactical range and operating capabilities with its defense network. The Diver Support Vessels will ensure enhanced fleet security and interoperability as well as improve Kuwait's capability to conduct operations. Kuwait will have no difficulty absorbing the diver support vessels into its armed forces.

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

The prime contractor will be Swiftships, LLC in Morgan City, Louisiana. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of one contractor representative in Kuwait for a period of one year after the delivery of the craft to provide technical assistance in the performance of planned and corrective maintenance and repair.

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.

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