US approves sale of ATACMS and GMLRS missiles to UAE

12 October, 2024 An M270 MLRS launches an ATACMS missile. United States of America. Photo: U.S.

Army (USAASC) The US Department of State has approved the sale of ATACMS missiles and GMLRS munitions to the United Arab Emirates. This was reported by the Security Cooperation Agency of the US Department of Defense.

This agency is responsible for the supply of military equipment and weapons abroad under intergovernmental contracts. The US believes that the availability of this system will allow the UAE to counter more effectively current and future threats. The US State Department has authorized a potential sale of GMLRS munitions and ATACMS missiles and related systems worth £1.2 billion.

An ATACMS missile and GMLRS munitions of the US Army.

Photo: uk.wikipedia.org

The UAE authorities have previously requested permission to purchase 1,554 GMLRS munitions and 203 ATACMS missiles, as well as related systems and services from the United States. These munitions and missiles are used by the US HIMARS and M270 rocket launchers. Washington has already notified the Congress of this decision.

The legislative body now has 30 days to consider the potential deal and possibly block it. The US Department of Defense has assured that the sale of the systems would not harm the US combat capabilities. If the Congress does not block the proposed deal, contractors and the recipient countries can start negotiating contracts that may be lesser than the approved maximum.

M142 HIMARS and ATACMS missiles.

Photo credits: Mariusz Burcz

At the same time, in 2023, the United Arab Emirates ordered Chinese AR3 missile systems.

The contract was signed with the International Golden Group, Norinco's Emirati partner, and includes maintenance work.

This is the first known export order for the AR3 rocket launchers.