The US State Department has approved the potential sale of multifunctional information distribution systems and related equipment to Saudi Arabia for an estimated $101.1 million.
Riyad requested 63 Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT), 229 MIDS Joint Tactical Radio Systems, and 124 MIDS-LVT Block Upgrade 2 retrofit kits.
The MIDS-LVT provides secure, high-capacity, jam-resistant, digital data and voice communications to air, sea, and ground platforms.
The request also included TacNet tactical radios, low volume terminal cryptographic modules, and other communications equipment.
To Enhance Saudi’s Surveillance Capability
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the sale will enhance Saudi Arabia’s “surveillance capability to counter current and future regional threats, strengthen its homeland defense, and improve interoperability with systems operated by US forces and other Gulf Region partners.”
“The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”
The principal contractor will be decided through a competitive process.