Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Saudi Arabia - Continued Assistance in the Modernization of the SANG

Saudi Arabia - Continued Assistance in the Modernization of the SANG July 23, 2008: WASHINGTON --- The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia of continued assistance in the modernization of the Saudi Arabian National Guard (SANG) as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $1.8 billion. The Government of Saudi Arabia has requested a possible sale for the continuation of the United States supported effort to modernize the SANG by providing the following defense services: training, professional military advice and assistance, management assistance, contract administration, construction oversight, transportation of equipment, personnel training and training equipment, light armored vehicle training, spare and repair parts, management of repair and return of components, automation program support, and other related elements of logistics support. These support services would be for the period 1 January 2009 through 31 December 2013. The estimated cost is $1.8 billion. This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country which has been and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East. The continuation of services under the SANG Modernization Program is an evolution of the SANG as an effective defensive force with the advice, assistance, and training of the U.S. Army. The Modernization Program ensures necessary training, logistics, support, doctrine development and force integration for the continuing expansion and use of their weapon systems. These services will remain the cornerstone of an effort to upgrade and enhance the infrastructure of the SANG organization. The proposed sale of this support will not affect the basic military balance in the region. The principal contractor will be Vinnell Arabia Corporation of Herndon, VA. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. At present, there are approximately 215 U.S. Government personnel and 500 contractor representatives in country supporting the SANG Modernization Program. There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.

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