US approves $1.96 billion precision-guided munition kit sale to Saudi Arabia

The US State Department announced approval of a roughly $1.96 billion sale of precision-guided munition systems and related equipment to Saudi Arabia. The package covers up to 10,000 air-to-air and 10,000 air-to-ground guidance units under the Advanced Precision Guidance Kit System. The proposed sale also includes LAU-131 air-to-air missile launchers, Mk-152 high-explosive warheads, MK66 rocket motors, proximity fuze components, WTU-1/B training warheads, MK66 rocket motors for expendable systems, test support equipment, launch and operations hardware, spare and repair parts and logistics support items. In its notification to Congress, the department said the deal would support US foreign policy and national security goals and strengthen the security of a major non-NATO ally. It added that the transfer would enhance Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities, which the department described as a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region. The department said the package falls within the category of non-defense articles and equipment and serves the mutual interests of both countries. No further details on contract timelines or delivery schedules were immediately released.