The United States(US) State Department has given the green light for a potential Foreign Military Sale to Nigeria, valued at approximately $346 million. This sale includes munitions, precision bombs, precision rockets, and related equipment, aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s military capabilities.
he Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program is a crucial aspect of US foreign policy, enabling the government to sell defense articles and services to eligible countries. The program is executed by the Department of Defense, with the State Department approving individual programs on a case-by-case basis. The FMS program aims to strengthen the security of the United States and promote world peace.
This significant arms sale to Nigeria underscores the country’s importance in regional security efforts. As a key partner in West Africa, Nigeria plays a vital role in maintaining stability and combating terrorism in the region. The approved sale will likely enhance Nigeria’s military effectiveness, enabling the country to better address security challenges.
Key Components of the Sale
Munitions: 1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500 lb bombs, 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) all-up-rounds, and 2,000 advanced precision kill weapon system guidance sections.
Precision Bombs– 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups for 500 lb Paveway II GBU-12- 515 MXU-1006 AFGs for 250 lb Paveway II GBU-58
Purpose and Impact
The sale aims to support Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism and illicit trafficking, enhancing regional security. According to the US State Department, this deal won’t alter the military balance in the region, and Nigeria can integrate the munitions into its armed forces without difficulty. The proposed sale will better equip Nigeria to contribute to shared security objectives, promote regional stability, and build interoperability with the US and other Western partners.
Contractors
The principal contractors for this sale are:
Bell Helicopter, Textron: Fort Worth, TX (for AH-1Z Attack Helicopters)
General Electric Company: Lynn, MA (for T-700 GE 401C engines)
RTX Missiles and Defense: Tucson, AZ
Lockheed Martin Corporation: Archibald, PA
BAE Systems: Hudson, NH
Implementation
No additional US government or contractor representatives will be assigned to Nigeria for the sale’s implementation, and there’s expected to be no adverse effect on US defense readiness. The final cost may be lower than the initial estimate, depending on Nigeria’s requirements and budget. The implementation will include special training on the law of armed conflict and human rights, and air-to-ground integration to minimize civilian harm in air operations.
