The United Arab Emirates Is Purchasing More GMLRS & ATACMS Missiles For HIMARS Systems
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced that the US State Department has approved a Foreign Military Sale to the United Arab Emirates for GMLRS and ATACMS Munitions and related equipment for an estimated $1.2 billion. According to the agency, the necessary certification and related documents announcing this possible sale were submitted to the US Congress on October 11, 2024.
The potential sale includes 259 GMLRS M31A1 unitary pods and 203 ATACMS M57 unitary missiles. Other important components of the package include spare parts, consumables, accessories, logistics, and program support.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), “the proposed sale will improve the United Arab Emirates’ capability to meet current and future threats by modernizing its armed forces. This sale will contribute to the United Arab Emirates’ military goals of updating capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other partners. The United Arab Emirates will have no difficulty absorbing these articles into its armed forces.” The agency also stated that the proposed sale would not change the basic military balance in the region.
Grand Prairie, Texas-based Lockheed Martin will be the prime contractor for the deal. To complete this potential sale, four US government personnel and four contractor representatives will travel to the United Arab Emirates for ten days. Their primary responsibilities will be supporting training in new software equipment and the stock reliability program.
The approval of this potential arms sale by the State Department means that the sale is not a concern for the US administration. If the US Congress does not object to the State Department’s decision within 30 business days, the administration will begin negotiations with the United Arab Emirates over the content of the sales package, and the procurement process will begin. Unless the US Congress objects to the sale, the United Arab Emirates will renew the ammunition stocks of the HIMARS systems it owns and strengthen its stance against the volatile and dangerous elements in the region.