The State Department has approved Belgium™s request to buy 34 Lockheed Martin-built (NYSE: LMT) F-35A conventional take-off and landing fighter aircraft from the U.S. government under a potential $6.53 billion foreign military sales agreement.
Lockheed and United Technologies Corp.™s (NYSE: UTX) Pratt & Whitney subsidiary will serve as prime contractors in the proposed deal that also covers 38 F-135 engines; autonomic logistics global support system; electronic warfare components; and full mission trainer, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said Thursday.
The proposed transaction aims to help Belgium build up its air-to-ground and air-to-air defense capability, increase its aircraft inventory, deter regional aggression and facilitate interoperability with U.S. forces.
The European country also requested to purchase command, control, communications, computer and intelligence/communications, navigational and identification systems; F-35 infrared flares; tanker and aircraft ferry support; software development; technical support; engineering; and logistics support services.
The proposed FMS deal will involve several trips of government and contractor personnel to Belgium to provide post-delivery ALGS and engineering technical support as well as carry out technical assessments, training and program management activities.
DSCA said it notified Congress of the potential transaction Thursday.
