The package encompasses advanced radar systems, numerous missiles, and logistical and engineering support from personnel based in the United States.
The Pentagon has announced that the US State Department has green-lit a potential sale of a $4.67 billion surface-to-air missile system package to Egypt.
On Thursday, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency revealed its plan for a “potential Foreign Military Sale” of a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). This includes four AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar systems, a significant quantity of missiles, and various guidance units.
NASAMS, developed collaboratively by the US and Norway, is designed to target hostile aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles, enhancing aerial defense capabilities.
As part of the prospective agreement, US personnel and contractors will offer engineering, technical, and logistical support to bolster the Egyptian military’s operations.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency noted that this sale aligns with US foreign policy and national security interests, reinforcing the stability and economic development of Egypt, a key non-NATO ally in the Middle East.
RTX Corporation, a prominent aerospace and defense firm headquartered in Massachusetts, will serve as the primary contractor for this initiative.
The defense agency has completed the necessary certification process and informed Congress about this potential transaction.
If finalized, around 26 US government workers and 34 contractors are expected to be deployed to Egypt for an extended duration, providing training and support services.
Cairo, a long-standing ally of the US in the region, has benefited from substantial defense funding since the two nations signed a peace agreement with Israel in 1979.
However, recent developments suggest that Egypt has been fostering closer ties with China, highlighted by joint military exercises conducted for the first time in April and May of this year. Dubbed “Eagles of Civilization 2025,” these maneuvers aimed to enhance defense collaboration and military capabilities.