Technical Assistance for Construction of Iraqi Facilities and Infrastructure

WASHINGTON: The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq of technical assistance for construction of facilities and infrastructure as well as associated equipment and services.

The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $1.6 billion.

The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of technical assistance to ensure provision of adequate facilities and infrastructure in support of the recruitment, garrison, training, and operational facilities and infrastructure for the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF). The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will provide engineering, planning, design, acquisition, contract administration, construction management, and other technical services for construction of facilities and infrastructure (repair, rehabilitation, and new construction) in support of the training, garrison, and operational requirements of the ISF.

The scope of the program includes provision of technical assistance for Light Armored Vehicles, Range Facilities, Training Facilities, Tank Range Complex Facilities, and Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter Facilities in support of Government of Iraq (GoI) construction projects throughout the country of Iraq.

The facilities and infrastructure planned include mission essential facilities, maintenance and supply buildings, company and regimental headquarters, and utilities systems (including heating, water, sewer, electricity, and communication lines).

Services include support, personnel training and training equipment, acquisition of engineer construction equipment, technical assistance to Iraqi military engineers, other technical assistance, contractor engineering services, and other related elements of logistic support. The estimated cost is $1.6 billion.

This proposed sale would contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the U.S. by enhancing Iraq’s capacity to support USG Operation Iraqi Freedom efforts, and by supporting Iraq’s legitimate need for military independence.

This proposed sale would enable Iraq to support the recruitment, training, bed-down, and operational effectiveness of its military; to establish security and stability throughout Iraq; and to promote the stability and development of a friendly, democratic central government.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region.

The USACE is the principal organization that will direct and manage this program. The USACE will provide services through both in-house personnel and contract services. Contracts will be procured in accordance with Federal Government contracting law and regulations. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

The estimated number of U.S. Government and contractor representatives to be assigned to Iraq to implement the provisions of this proposed sale will be determined during program execution.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.