Saudi Arabia has requested the purchase of 730 PAC-3 MSE missiles along with a wide range of associated non-major defense equipment, training, technical support, logistics services, and classified and unclassified software and documentation. The total estimated cost of the package, including missiles, support equipment, and program services, is $9 billion.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the proposed sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a major non-NATO ally that contributes to political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region. The sale is intended to improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to address current and future threats by enhancing its integrated air and missile defense system.
The enhanced air defense capability is expected to help protect Saudi, U.S., and allied land forces and improve Saudi Arabia’s contribution to integrated air and missile defense operations in the U.S. Central Command region. U.S. officials stated that Saudi Arabia will be able to absorb the equipment and services without difficulty and that the sale will not alter the military balance in the region.
