12:40 GMT, November 23, 2009 defpro.com | The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress on 18 November of a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Iraq of light and medium utility helicopters with associated parts, equipment, training and logistical support for a complete package worth approximately $1.2 billion (€801.6 million).

According to the DSCA, the Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of up to 15 AgustaWestland AW109 Light Utility Observation helicopters, or alternatively, 15 Bell Model 429 Medical Evacuation and Aerial Observation helicopters, or 15 EADS North America UH-72A Lakota Light Utility helicopters; and, up to 12 AgustaWestland AW139 Medium Utility helicopters, or alternatively, 12 Bell Model 412 Medium Utility helicopters, or 12 Sikorsky UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters equipped with 24 T700-GE-701D engines.

As the DSCA states in its official press release, “this proposed sale will advance Iraqi efforts to develop a strong national military and police authority. A well-equipped and trained military and police/border force patrol authority and counter-terrorism force will help ensure that Iraq can continue to sustain its democratically-elected government, assist in stabilizing the various provinces, and prevent an overflow of unrest into the provinces, cities, and towns within Iraq.”

According to the press release, the principal contractors will be AgustaWestland Helicopter Company, Bell Helicopter Textron, EADS North America Arlington, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, and General Electric Lynn. (nvk)