US clears a $650mn FMS from France for two C-130J and two KC-130J military airlifters.

This contracty includes six AN/ALE 47 Electronic Countermeasure Dispensers (1 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), six AN/AAR-47A(V)2 Missile Warning Systems (1 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), six AN/ALR-56M Radar Warning Receivers (1 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), ten Embedded Global Positioning/Inertial Navigation Systems (2 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), ten AN/ARC-210 Radios (2 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), ten AN/ARC-164 UHF/VF Radios (2 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), two HF Voice Radios, ten (10) KY-100 Secure Voice Terminals (2 per aircraft, plus 2 spares), ten KYV-5 Secure Voice Equipment Units (2 per aircraft, plus 2 spares).

Also provided are support and test equipment; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training equipment; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated MDE value is $355 million. The total overall estimated value is $650 million.

"This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the capability of a NATO ally. It is vital to U.S. national interests to assist the French Air Force to increase its airlift, air refueling, and air drop capabilities. These aircraft will provide these capabilities and will be used to support national, NATO, United Nations, and other coalition operations. Providing these aircraft to the French Air Force will greatly increase interoperability between the U.S. Air Force and the French Air Force, as well as other NATO allies," the DSCA said.

The C-130Js will provide critical transport, airdrop, and resupply to thousands of French troops in support of current and future operations. The KC-130Js will provide crucial air refueling capability to France's fighter aircraft, light transport aircraft, and helicopters.