The United States has approved a proposed $1.96 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia aimed at strengthening the kingdom’s air defence capabilities as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.
In a statement on Wednesday, the US State Department said the sale supports Washington’s foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of Saudi Arabia, a major non-NATO ally.
According to the department, the package includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) and related warheads. The US Navy describes the system as a cost-effective precision-guided weapon designed to destroy targets while minimising collateral damage.
The principal contractor for the deal is BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Jersey.
The State Department said the proposed sale would improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to deter current and future threats, strengthen homeland defence and enhance interoperability with US, regional and NATO forces.
The approval comes as Saudi Arabia faces renewed security concerns following missile attacks launched by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels on Abha International Airport earlier this week.
The Houthis carried out the strike after the internationally recognised Yemeni government targeted Sanaa International Airport to divert a flight carrying a Houthi delegation returning from the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The Houthis blamed Saudi Arabia for that attack.
The announcement also comes as the United States continues military operations against Iran and has reimposed a naval blockade amid escalating hostilities in the region.
The State Department said the proposed sale would have no adverse impact on US military readiness.
