The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq for M1A1 Abrams tank ammunition and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $600 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of 10,000 M831 120mm High-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) munitions, 10,000 M865 120mm Kinetic Energy Warheads (KEW), 10,000 M865 120mm KEW-A1, and 16,000 M830 120mm HEAT-MP-T tank ammunition. Also included are U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated cost is $600 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 strategic partner. This proposed sale directly supports the Iraqi government and serves the interests of the Iraqi people and the United States.
The proposed sale of the ammunition and support will advance Iraq’s efforts to develop an integrated ground defense capability to support a strong national defense. This will enable the Iraqi Government to sustain its efforts to establish and maintain stability.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The prime contractor will be General Dynamics-Ordnance Tactical Systems in St Petersburg, Florida. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of U.S. Government and contractor representatives to Iraq.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
