TSAMTO, January 24. The US State Department has approved the potential provision of additional logistics support services for the MQ-9 UAV fleet to France as part of the Foreign Military Sales program, as well as the supply of related equipment.
The full cost of the program may amount to $300 million. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on January 7 notified Congress of the planned provision of services to support the MQ-9 "Riper" UAV fleet of the French Armed Forces.
The French government has asked the United States about the possibility of additional logistics support services for contractors (CLS), including components, spare parts and accessories provided by the contractor for the MQ-9 UAV, carrying out necessary repairs, providing software and providing its support, supplying equipment for training, training personnel, transferring technical documentation, providing engineering, technical and logistical support from the contractor and the US government, as well as other related elements of material support and program support.
As stated, "the implementation of this program is in line with the interests of US foreign policy and national security and will improve the security of a NATO ally, which is an important force for ensuring political stability and economic progress in Europe."
The notification notes that the provision of the requested support services will increase the capabilities of the French Armed Forces to counter existing and future threats. At the moment, the MQ-9 UAV fleet of the French Air Force provides intelligence, surveillance and information gathering, support for US and coalition operations in various regions of the world.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has been selected as the general contractor for the project.
The notice of sale is published in accordance with the requirements of American law. The description and value of the sale reflect the highest estimates based on the initial requirements. The actual purchase price may be lower, depending on the final requirements, financial capabilities and signed purchase and sale agreements, if they are concluded.