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The government of Kuwait is seeking a 30-year extension to the operational service life of Patriot missiles under a possible US$150 million foreign military sale approved by the US State Department.
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The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the possible deal for repair and recertification of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missiles and support on 20 September.
Under the potential deal, Kuwait has requested replacement of expiring limited life components and certifications testing to support an operational life of 30 years for Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles.
The PAC-3 guided air and missile defence provides hit-to-kill capability in both range and altitude operating in all environments. The system consists of a radar set for airspace surveillance and target detection, engagement control station and launching station consisting of 12 or 16 PAC-3 missiles.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the infrastructure of a major non-NATO ally that has been an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East,” according to the DSCA statement.
“This proposed sale will improve Kuwait’s capability to sustain their missile density and ensure readiness for air operations.
“Kuwait will use this capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen homeland defence.
“Kuwait will have no difficulty absorbing this infrastructure, support, and associated services into its armed forces.”
The agreement would provide testing and repair of PAC-3 missiles, repair and return of missile items and ground support equipment, missile spares, GSE spares and seeker spares, US government and contractor technical and logistics support. Lockheed Martin Corporation would be the principal contractor.
PAC-3 international partners include Kuwait, Germany, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates.
