The U.S. State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and related equipment to Bahrain for an estimated cost of $500 million.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), a Pentagon body responsible for U.S. military equipment exports. The agency stated that the State Department has notified Congress of the proposed sale.
According to the statement, Bahrain has requested to purchase four HIMARS systems, three International Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems (IFATDS), along with support equipment and services. These include M28A2 Low-Cost Reduced Range Practice Rockets, resupply vehicles, GPS receivers, simulators, communications equipment, spare parts, training, and logistical and technical support.
The DSCA affirmed that this deal will strengthen Bahrain’s defensive capabilities and support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives. The sale will enhance the security of a key non-NATO ally, enabling it to better protect U.S. personnel and facilities in Bahrain and participate in U.S.-led coalition operations. The agency added that the deal will not alter the basic military balance in the region and that Bahraini forces are capable of easily integrating these systems into their arsenal.
The primary contractor for the sale will be Lockheed Martin, headquartered in Grand Prairie, Texas, with no offset agreements currently in place.
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