US Seeking to Sell Arms to Allies in the Persian Gulf
March 2007
In an effort to send a signal to Iran, the State Department is seeking Congressional approval to sell arms to US allies in the Persian Gulf. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and the United Arab Emirates could have their defenses bolstered through the purchase of sophisticated air and missile defense systems, advanced early warning radar aircraft and light coastal combat ships. It is also believed that Northrop Grumman’s E-2D Hawkeye 2000 early warning aircraft is under consideration for sale. The United Arab Emirates had tried to acquire this aircraft in 2003 but the deal fell through due to the US Navy’s hesitation to sell the necessary communication software.
US officials have been rather quiet about the proposed arms sales. This could be due to the concern that building up Iran’s neighbors could bring the US closer to an Iranian confrontation. Officials state the need for Congressional support and the need for a low level of publicity from the countries involved as the reason for being so tight-lipped. Several countries have been reticent about agreeing to sales because of the fear of sending a message of aggression to Iran.
Source:
- The Boston Globe - boston.com March 21, 2007, Author: Farah Stockman
