US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, WASHINGTON: The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Colombia of UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $303 million.
The Government of Colombia has requested a possible sale of 15 UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters with engines, spare and repair parts, tools and support equipment, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $303 million.
This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that has been and continues to be an important force in the war on drugs.
Colombia needs these helicopters to fulfill its strategic commitments within the region, for its self-defense and to continue its counter narco-terrorist mission. These helicopters will be used to pinpoint and destroy narco-terrorists identified and operating within Colombia. The proposed sale will upgrade its anti-personnel and day/night mission capability, provide for the defense of vital installations, and provide close air support for ground forces. Colombia, which already has UH-60 model helicopters in its inventory, will have no difficulty absorbing these additional aircraft.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractors will be: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation of Stratford, Connecticut and General Electric of Lynn, Massachusetts. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government and contractor representatives to Colombia.
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.
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