The U.S. Department of State has approved a possible $100 million purchase by Kuwait of 15 fast patrol boats, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.
“The Government of Kuwait has requested to purchase fifteen (15) fast patrol boats outfitted with thirty-six (36) .50 caliber machine guns (thirty (30) installed, two (2) per boat and six (6) spares,” DSCA said in a Tuesday, February 20 press release.
“Kuwait plays a key role in U.S. efforts to advance stability in the Middle East, providing basing, access, and transit of U.S. forces in the region.”
Kuwait will use the boats for patrol, interdiction and maritime protection, DSCA said.
The request also includes support equipment, personnel training and training equipment as well as U.S. government and contractor engineers, support services and other logistical and program support, at an estimated total cost of $100 million.
The prime contractor is Vigor (formerly Kvichak) based in Kent, Washington.
Vigor offers two patrol boats, a 38-foot patrol vessel and a 68-foot patrol catamaran.
