US Approves Saudi Arabia's $1B Helicopter Fleet FMS Deals

The Department of State has approved two potential foreign military sales to Saudi Arabia, totaling $1 billion.

The proposed transactions, valued at $500 million each, aim to support the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Corps, or RSLFAC, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said Monday.

What Is Included in the CLSSA Foreign Military Sale Order II Case?

The first potential FMS covers a cooperative logistics supply support arrangement, or CLSSA, FMS Order II case, allowing Saudi Arabia to requisition centrally managed spares and repair parts for the RSLFAC’s UH-60 Black Hawk, AH-64 Apache, CH-47F Chinook, Schweizer 333 and Aerial Scout helicopters.

What Is Covered in the Blanket Order Aviation Training FMS?

The second FMS request covers blanket order aviation training for Saudi Arabian aircrews and maintainers. U.S. Army instructors under the Training and Doctrine Command, or TRADOC, will provide initial through advanced rotary-wing flight and maintainer training on the AH-64E Apache, CH-47F Chinook, UH-72A Lakota and UH-60L/M Black Hawk helicopters.

What Are Saudi Arabia’s FMS Requests For?

Both proposed deals aim to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s security capabilities, enhance the operational readiness of its helicopter fleet, bolster interoperability with U.S. forces, and support political stability and economic growth in the Gulf region.

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