The US government has approved the possible sale of 15 Bell Helicopter AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters to Pakistan, with the package to include 1,000 Lockheed Martin AGM-114R Hellfire II missiles.

The $952 million package would be conducted under the US Foreign Military Sales programme, says the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on its web site.

“This proposed sale will provide Pakistan with a precision strike, enhanced survivability aircraft that it can operate at high-altitudes,” says the DSCA.

“By acquiring this capability, Pakistan will enhance its ability to conduct operations in North Waziristan Agency (NWA), the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), and other remote and mountainous areas in all-weather, day-and-night environments. Pakistan will have no difficulty absorbing these helicopters into its armed forces.”

AH-1Z - US Navy

US Navy

In addition to the helicopters and missiles, the package includes mission computers, target sight systems, 20mm guns, spare engines, and other equipment. The package also covers logistics, training, and other support.

The deal does not include any offsets, adds the DSCA.

Source: FlightGlobal.com

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