- US Set To Begin Sale of Military Ammunition to Nigeria
- DSCA Confirms Nigeria’s Interest in Weaponry.
- Nigeria Aims to Boost Nigeria’s ability to respond to both current and emerging threats
The United States has given the green light for a proposed sale of military ammunition and precision-guided weapons to Nigeria, estimated at a value of $346 million, in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security operations.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the announcement was made by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which confirmed that Nigeria requested the acquisition of a variety of advanced weaponry, including 1,002 MK-82 500-pound bombs, precision bomb kits, and 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) rockets.
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Also included in the request are programmable fuzes, air foil groups, control units for laser-guided bombs, and a wide range of non-major defence equipment such as bomb components, test gear, and logistics support services.
The support package will include technical expertise and maintenance support from US government personnel and private contractors.
Key defence manufacturers Lockheed Martin, RTX Missiles and Defence, and BAE Systems have been named as the primary contractors for the potential deal. These companies are among the world’s leading defence suppliers, providing a wide range of military systems including aircraft, missiles, radars, and naval technologies.
The DSCA said the proposed sale would contribute to the United States’ foreign policy and national security goals by enhancing the defence capability of a vital partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“This sale aims to boost Nigeria’s ability to respond to both current and emerging threats, especially in ongoing operations against terrorist groups and in securing the Gulf of Guinea region,” the agency noted.
It also emphasized that the arms deal will not disturb the balance of power in the region, and that Nigeria is fully capable of absorbing and operating the equipment within its military infrastructure.
While the total cost is estimated at $346 million, the DSCA explained that the final cost may be lower based on Nigeria’s budget, technical requirements, and the terms of the final agreement when signed.
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