The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential $300m foreign military sale of C-17 logistics support services and large aircraft infrared countermeasures (LAIRCM) system components to Nato Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).
Approved by the US State department, the total estimated cost of the sale is $333.5m.
NSPA seeks to receive follow-on support for three C-17 aircraft, which will include participation in the Global Reach Improvement Program, contract labour for Class I modifications and kits, in-country contractor support, and alternate mission equipment. It will also involve major modification and retrofit, software support, aircraft maintenance, and technical support.
The sale also covers support equipment, personnel training and equipment, additional spare and repair parts, technical orders and publications, airworthiness certification support, engine logistics support, inspections, and other US Government and contractor engineering, logistics and programme support.
As part of a separate $33.5m sale, NSPA will receive 14 Guardian laser transmitter assemblies and six LAIRCM system processor replacements.
The NSPA also requested contractor spares, consumables, support equipment, technical data, aircraft installation, flight tests, certification, publications and training in order to upgrade the AN/AAQ-24(V) LAIRCM system on three of its C-17 aircraft.
The aircraft are operated by a consortium of 12 nations, including the US.
The procurement will expand the capabilities of strategic airlift to Nato allies and partners, and sustain the ability to deploy in support of contingency operations outside of Europe.
Boeing Corporation of Chicago and Northrup Grumman will serve as prime contractors for the sale of C-17 support and LAIRCM system components.
Image: Nato C-17 (SAC). Photo: courtesy of Gerard van der Schaaf.
