Comprehensive programme estimated at $1.7 billion
Kuwait is requesting a recapitalisation programme for its fleet of 218 M1A2 ABRAMS MBT under a Foreign Military Sale valued at an estimated US$1.7 billion, including related equipment, support and training. The Defense Security Cooperation notified Congress the potential sale on 12 December.

Principal contractors are: General Dynamics Land Systems; Joint Services Manufacturing Center (JSMC); Kongsberg Defense Systems; Raytheon; Meggitt Defense Systems; Northrop Grumman; DRS Technologies; Lockheed Martin; Honeywell; and Miltope.

Specific items in the comprehensive request include:

·         240 M2A1 .50 calibre MG;
·         480 M240 7.62mm MG
·         240 AN/VRC-92E SINCGARS radios
·         1,085 AN/PVS-7B NVG

Also included are the incorporation of cooling/thermal management systems; Common Remotely Operated Weapons Station (CROWS II); special armour; 120mm gun tubes; 2nd generation FLIR sights; gunner’s primary sights; Counter Sniper and Anti-Materiel Mount (CSAMM); embedded diagnostics; engine/transmission upgrades; training devices and a variety of support and logistics requirements.

Kuwait’s request supports the requirement the nation has to extend the life and improve the operational availability of its MBT fleet.