Morocco - Weapons and Related Support for F-16 Aircraft

(Washington, July 30, 2008) -- The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Morocco of weapons and related support for F-16 Aircraft as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $155 million.

The Government of Morocco has requested a possible sale of 30 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to Air Missiles (AMRAAM); 60 AIM-9M SIDEWINDER Missiles; 20 AGM-88B/C HARM Missiles; 8 AGM-65D/G MAVERICK Missiles; 45 AGM-65H MAVERICK Missiles; 50 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tail kits (which include 20 GBU-31 for MK-82, 500 lb bomb, and 30 GBU-38 for MK-84, 2000 lb bomb); 20 GBU-24 PAVEWAY III kits; 50 GBU-10 PAVEWAY II kits; 150 GBU-12, PAVEWAY II kits; 60 Enhanced GBU-12 PAVEWAY II bombs; 300 MK-82 training bombs; 60,000 20mm training projectiles; 4,000 ALE-47 self-protection chaff; 4,000 ALE-47 self-protection flares. Also included: Containers, bomb components, spare/repair parts, publications, documentation, personnel training and training equipment, contractor technical and logistics personnel services, and other related support elements. The estimated cost is $155 million.

The proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by enhancing Morocco's capacity to support U.S. efforts in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT), as well as supporting Morocco's legitimate need for its own self-defense. Morocco is one of the most stable and pro-Western of the Arab states, and the U.S. remains committed to a long-term relationship with Morocco.

The proposed sale will allow the Moroccan Air Force to modernize its aging fighter inventory, thereby enabling Morocco to support both its own air defense needs and coalition operations. Morocco is a Major Non-NATO ally. Delivery of this weapon system will greatly enhance Morocco's interoperability with the U.S. and other NATO nations, making it a more valuable partner in an increasingly important area of the world. The country will have no difficulty absorbing this new capability into its armed forces.

Source : US Defense Security Cooperation Agency

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