U.S. approves potential USD 738 million sale of MQ-9 Block 5 drones to Italy

By Defence Industry Europe

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Italy involving MQ-9 Block 5 drones and related equipment, with an estimated value of USD 738 million.

 

The proposed deal includes six MQ-9 Block 5 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), three Mobile Ground Control Stations, and a range of advanced sensors and communication systems. Notably, the package features twelve AN/DAS-4 Multi-spectral Target Systems and nine LYNX AN/APY-8 Block 20A Synthetic Aperture Radars with Maritime Wide Area Surveillance capabilities.

In addition to the drones and ground control systems, the sale encompasses a broad array of support and maintenance equipment, software, training, and other logistical elements necessary for full operational capability.

 

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This sale aims to bolster Italy’s ability to address emerging threats, enhancing the capabilities of its Air Force’s existing MQ-9 fleet. The move aligns with U.S. and NATO objectives to strengthen security and interoperability among allies.

General Atomics will be the principal contractor for the deal.

 

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