The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of France of MQ-9 Communications Intelligence Sensor Pod Suites and related equipment for an estimated cost of $88 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
The Government of France has requested to buy up to eight (8) Communications Intelligence Sensor Pod Suites, that will be added to a previously implemented case. The original FMS case and amendments, valued at $71 million, included five (5) Communications Intelligence Sensor Pod Suites. Therefore, this notification is for a total of eight (8) Communications Intelligence Sensor Pod Suites. Also included is ground handling equipment; spares and repair parts; consumables and accessories; secure communications and cryptographic devices; software and support services; publications and technical documentation; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $88 million.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO Ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.