According to the DSCA, Saudi Arabia has requested a package focused on non-major defense equipment and services to support long-term operation of the aircraft. The request includes spares and repair parts, consumables and accessories, repair and return support, ground and personnel equipment, as well as classified and unclassified software, publications, and technical documentation.
The proposed sale also covers personnel training and training equipment, along with U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services. Other related elements of logistics and program support are included, bringing the estimated total cost of the package to $3.0 billion, the agency said.
The DSCA said the proposed sale would support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a Major non-NATO Ally regarded as a contributor to political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region. It added that the package would enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to deter current and future threats by sustaining and training the Royal Saudi Air Force’s F-15 fleet.
U.S. officials said Saudi Arabia would have no difficulty integrating the equipment and services into its armed forces. The agency also stressed that the proposed sale would not alter the military balance in the region.
