The US State Department has approved the potential sale of follow-on technical support (FOTS) worth $554m for Egypt’s naval ships.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the possible foreign military sale.
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Egypt will include material and labour services for Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates (FFG-7 class ships), fast missile craft, minehunter coastal ships, and fast patrol craft as part of the FOTS agreement.
DSCA said in a statement: “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to provide a strategic partner with critical support for multiple type ships responsible for Egypt’s maritime security.
“The proposed sale is essential to maintain Egypt’s national security, regional stability, and the free flow of worldwide commerce via the Suez Canal.”
The proposed sale will enhance the Egyptian Navy’s operational capability to provide coastal defence and security.
The technical maintenance and service support package will help increase the navy’s material and operational readiness.
According to the agency, Egypt will be able to easily absorb the follow-on technical support into its armed forces.
US-based company VSE has been appointed as the prime contractor for engineering services support.
As part of the implementation of the sale, US Government and contractor representatives will make regular visits to Egypt for technical reviews, support, and oversight for around five years.
VSE received an order from the US Naval Sea Systems Command in April 2017 to supply and install a SMART-S Radar system on an Egyptian Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate.
