Arab News reports on the arms sale agreement signed between Saudi Arabia and the US. The deal involves aircraft of varying kinds, including helicopters likely to be used primarily for border observation. While the article mentions tensions with Iran, the first effects of the contract won’t be felt until 2014, when upgrading of F-15 aircraft currently in the Saudi inventory begins. Delivery of new equipment won’t begin until 2015. This is definitely not a response to short-term threats, perceived or real, from Iran.
Defense bolstered with $29.4bn arms deal with America
P.K. ABDUL GHAFOUR | ARAB NEWSJEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has boosted its defense capabilities with a $29.4 billion arms deal with the United States.
The Kingdom confirmed on Friday that it has signed the deal to purchase 84 F-15SA fighter jets.
A Defense Ministry spokesman said the deal includes 70 Apache attack helicopters, 72 Black Hawk helicopters, 36 AH-6i helicopters and 12 MD-530F helicopters as well as upgrading of 70 existing F15 jets.
“The agreement also includes munitions, spare parts, training, maintenance and logistics for several years to ensure high level of defense capabilities for the Kingdom to safeguard its people and land,” the Saudi Press Agency quoted the spokesman as saying.
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January:01:2012 - 15:51
Given Iranian actions, further defence preparation would seem to be important.
January:03:2012 - 04:53
America needs to make $$$ I understand…Saudis need to spend their money I understand…
May Saudi never have to use them. The one spirit lives in everyone…doesn’t make choices…when we pray for everyone…we pray for everyone…
May earth be filled with peace. Mother Earth implement this I love you. All live to our great mother. The great cosmos dwells within her and she dwells within me.
Peace to All; Life to All; Love to All
January:03:2012 - 14:54
The rumor on the street is that the billions are going straight from Obama into the coffers of the Haia.
January:03:2012 - 18:15
I really, really doubt that rumor.
January:04:2012 - 12:46
I’m scratching my head a little here: updates to existing Saudi F-15s don’t need a lead time of two years so why sign and announce a contract now?
January:04:2012 - 16:09
I’m not sure. Maybe just to keep it all one tidy package? I’m sure the US would be/is happy to get the check moving sooner than later.
January:05:2012 - 11:12
American election cycle, more than likely. Appropriate the money while you have the votes.