The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Sept. 29 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Spain for the refurbishment of (6) SH-60F Multi-Mission Utility Helicopters and associated parts, equipment and logistical support for a complete package worth approximately $155 million.

The Government of Spain has requested a possible sale and the refurbishment of
(6) SH-60F Multi-Mission Utility Helicopters being offered as Excess Defense Articles,
(13) T700-GE-401C engines (12 installed and 1 spare), inspection and modifications, spare and repairs parts, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, and other related logistics and program support. The estimated cost is $155 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO ally that has been and continues to be an important force for economic and military progress.

The proposed sale and refurbishment of the SH-60s will modernize the Spanish Navy’s overwater search and rescue capability and enable continued interoperability with U.S. Armed Forces and other coalition partners in the region. The proposed sale will improve Spain’s overall ability to perform humanitarian missions, search and rescue, medical evacuations, fire-fighting, and anti-piracy efforts. Spain, which currently has 12 SH-60s in its inventory, will have no difficulty absorbing these additional helicopters into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of these aircraft will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractor for the engines will be General Electric in Lynn, Massachusetts. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of two contractor representatives to Spain for familiarization training for a period of two years. U.S. Government and contractor representatives will also be required to participate in program management and technical reviews, training, and maintenance support for one week intervals, semi-annually, for a period of three years.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.