UK - Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles

(Washington, April 9, 2008) -- On April 8, 2008, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the United Kingdom of 157 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $125 million.

The Government of the United Kingdom has requested a possible sale of 157 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Category I 4X4 Cougar vehicles, tools and test equipment, maintenance support, contractor technical and logistics personnel services, support equipment, spare and repair parts, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $125 million.

The United Kingdom is a major political and economic power in NATO and a key democratic partner of the U.S. in ensuring peace and stability in this region and around the world.

The United Kingdom requests these capabilities to provide for the safety of its deployed troops in support of Global War on Terror (GWOT) operations. This program will ensure the United Kingdom can effectively operate in hazardous areas in a safe, survivable vehicle, and enhance the United Kingdom's interoperability with U.S. forces. The United Kingdom is a staunch supporter of the U.S. in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the GWOT. The United Kingdom's troops are deployed in support of IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM, where U.S. assets currently provide this proposed capability. By acquiring this capability, the United Kingdom will be able to provide the same level of protection for its own forces as that provided the United States forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region. The United Kingdom will have no difficulty absorbing these vehicles into its Armed Forces.

Source : US Defense Security Cooperation Agency

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