November 4 (SeeNews) - The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the State Department has approved the possible sale to Croatia of two UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $115 million (103 million euro).
The deal is now pending the approval of the US Congress, DSCA said in a statement last week.
The sale was requested by the Croatian government and will also include designated unique equipment and government furnished equipment, communication security equipment, radios, aircraft warranty, air worthiness support, calibration services, spare and repair parts, support equipment, communication equipment, weapons, ammunition, night vision devices, personnel training and training devices, among others.
"Croatia intends to use these defense articles and services to modernize its armed forces and expand its existing army architecture in its efforts to provide multi-mission support in the region as well as combat terrorist threats. Croatia will have no difficulty absorbing these helicopters into its armed forces," DSCA said.
In particular, the acquisition of the two UH-60 helicopters will help Croatia to significantly increase its capability to provide troop lift, border security, counterterrorism, medical evacuation, search and rescue, re-supply/external lift, and combat support.
"These UH-60 helicopters will allow for interoperability with US and NATO forces in rapid response to a variety of missions and quick positioning of troops with minimal helicopter assets," it added.
US aircraft manufacturer Sikorsky Aircraft Company and US aircraft engine supplier General Electric Aircraft Company will be the principal contractors on the deal. The sale might require the assignment of an additional three US government and five contractor representatives in Croatia full-time for a period of two to five years to support the delivery and provide training.
Croatia has been a NATO member since 2009.
($=0.896366 euro)