Javelin sale option to Qatar
The US State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale of Javelin anti tank guided missiles and associated training, support and equipment to Qatar for $20 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on 26 May.
Qatar has requested 50 Javelin missiles and ten Command Launch Units (CLUs) with Category III Sensitive integrated day/thermal sights, with containers. The possible sale also includes ten Javelin Missile Simulation Rounds, an Enhanced Basic Skills Trainer (EPBST), 12 non-rechargeable batteries, ten battery coolant units, and a battery discharger and charger for six rechargeable batteries.
Also included is Life Cycle Contractor support that provides personnel, materials, services, equipment, facilities, supply support, maintenance, configuration management, product assurance and an Integrated Support Plan.
The proposed sale aims to improve Qatar's homeland defence capabilities. Lockheed Martin would be the principal contractor for the potential sale.
The Javelin is a shoulder-fired anti-armour system that automatically guides itself to the target after launch. It uses an arched top-attack profile to climb above its target for improved visibility. The system's soft launch design enables the Javelin to be safely fired from inside buildings or bunkers.
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