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The US State Department has approved the possible US$70 million foreign military sale of more than 300 TOW missiles to the government of Oman.
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The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the potential sale of 301 tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided (TOW) 2B, radio frequency missiles (BGM-71F-7-RF) on 3 October.
The sale, if approved, would also comprise the 301 TOW missiles including seven fly-to-buy missiles, technical, logistics, and engineering support.
TOW missile systems have been used extensively around the world since the 1970s as an anti-armour and anti-fortification weapon mounted on ground and rotary-wing vehicles. The system is still in service with the US Army, US Marines, and international forces.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East,” according to a public statement released by the DSCA.
“The proposed sale will improve the Royal Army of Oman’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing the strength of its homeland defence.
“Oman will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”
American defence prime Raytheon will be the principal contractor and the sale would not require the assignment of additional US government or US contractor representatives to Oman.
