Article Posted on : - Jul 12, 2013

Mark V patrol boat. Photo: USMI.

WASHINGTON (BNS): Saudi Arabia is planning to procure 30 Mark V patrol boats and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $1.2 billion.

The Defence Security Cooperation Agency has notified the US Congress on July 9 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia.

The country has requested a possible sale of 30 Mark V patrol boats, 32 27mm guns, spare and repair parts, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, US govt. and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support, according to a news relase by Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

The procurement of Mark V patrol boats will give the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) an effective combat and threat deterrent capability to protect maritime infrastructure in the Saudi littorals. This acquisition will enhance the stability and security operations for boundaries and territorial areas encompassing the Saudi Arabian coastline.

The Mark V patrol boats will provide additional capability to rapidly identify, engage, and defeat maritime security threats in the near-offshore region of the Saudi littorals. The boats will be used primarily to patrol and interdict intruders in Saudi territorial seas, and recognised economic exclusion zones.

The principal contractor for this effort has not yet been determined. Implementation of this proposed sale will require an additional three to four US Government and contractor representatives to Saudi Arabia for a period of seven years to provide logistics and technical support and warranty work during delivery of the boats, the report added.