US receives $90 million order from France for GMLRS Unitary Rocket Pods 51304162

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Defence & Security News - France
 
US receives $90 million order from France for GMLRS Unitary Rocket Pods
The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to France for Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Unitary Rocket Pods and related support. The estimated cost is $90 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on 12 April.
     
France to purchase GMLRS Unitary Rocket Pods to United States 640 001
French Army LRU 227mm (Lance-Roquette Unitaire - MLRS Multiple launch Rocket System), here in Mali.
     
The Government of France has requested a possible sale of twenty-one GMLRS Unitary Rocket Pods. Also included are a GMLRS Quality Assurance Team, GMLRS publications, live fire data, software updates, and technical assistance. The total estimated value of MDE is $60 million. The overall total estimated value is $90 million.

This proposed sale will enhance the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO ally which has been, and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist France to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability.

France intends to use these missiles to expand its existing army architecture and improve its self-defense capabilities. France is a co-developer of the GMLRS and has operational requirements for additional missiles. France will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The U.S. Army procured the GMLRS Unitary from Lockheed Martin Industries, Camden, Arkansas. The sale of these GMLRS Unitary will be from U.S. stock; therefore, Lockheed Martin will not be involved. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require U.S. Government and contractor representatives to travel to France for equipment de-processing, fielding, system checkout, and new equipment training.