US Approves Multibillion-Dollar Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia and UAE

US Approves Multibillion-Dollar Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia and UAE Amid Gaza Conflict

The United States (US) announced on Friday October 11 that it would approve multi-billion dollar arms sales to both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The State Department has approved the sale of 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles to Saudi Arabia at a cost of $251.8 million, as well as other components of logistics and program support, the Pentagon said in a statement.

The US also approved the sale of 2,503 AGM-114R3 Hellfire II missiles and other related components of logistical and program support worth $655 million.

“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to meet current and future threats and to operate alongside systems operated by U.S. forces and other Gulf states. Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in defense capabilities is critical to protecting its borders, energy infrastructure and its residents,” the Pentagon said.

The third and final potential sale of 10,000 M456 series, 105mm, high-explosive anti-tank tracer cartridges and various types of tank, howitzer and machine gun ammunition and related equipment to Saudi Arabia was approved by the United States at a cost of $139 million. .

In addition to the sale to Saudi Arabia, the State Department approved the sale of 259 Guided Multiple Missile System (GMLRS) M31 A1 unitary pods for $1.2 billion, including 1,554 missiles and 203 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS). M57 Unitary Missiles to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The proposed sale would support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by helping to improve the security of an important regional ally.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of both sales. Congress must give final approval.

Both sales come amid ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Palestinian groups led by Hamas.