US to support Saudi Arabian E-3 AWACS upgrade programme

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of airborne warning and control system (AWACS) upgrade programme and associated equipment to Saudi Arabia.

Under the estimated $2bn sale, Saudi Arabia has requested the supply of five E-3A AWACS Block 40/45 mission computing upgrade systems, along with 20 AN/UPX-40 next-generation identification friend or foe (NG IFF) systems.

The package also includes communication equipment, spare and repairs parts, support equipment, mission planning system, personnel training and training equipment, as well as other related elements of logistics and programme support.

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