US approves possible $4.5 billion sale of refueling aircraft to Qatar

US approves $4.5 billion sale of refueling planes to Qatar

The U.S. approved on Thursday a possible $4.5 billion sale of four aerial refueling aircraft and related equipment to Qatar.

Christopher Pike, Bloomberg via Getty Images

The State Department greenlighted the potential sale of four KC-46A refueling aircraft , a deal which could include eight PW4062 turbofan engines (four installed and four to spare), ten AN/ALR-69A radar warning receivers, 15 Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies and eight LAIRCM system processor replacements, the department said in a release.

“The proposed sale will increase Qatar’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its defense capabilities and interoperability with U.S. and allied forces and reinforcing Qatar’s strategic role in regional security,” the department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs said. “Qatar will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.”

The deal also encompasses missile warning sensors, cartridge-actuated devices, propellant-actuated devices; control interface units, user data module cards, electronic warfare database support, KIV-77 crypto module, KY-100M crypto terminals and other parts.

The deal is not final, as Congress could put a pause on the transaction.

The announcement comes as U.S. allies in the Gulf have faced heavy attacks from Iran since the war between Washington and Tehran began in late February.

Iran has fired ballistic and cruise missiles and one-way attack drones at Gulf states, including Qatar.

“The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region, the department said on Thursday.

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