Article Posted on : - Aug 05, 2010

F-16 Block aircraft. Photo: Lockheed Martin.

WASHINGTON (BNS): The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) will supply 18 F-16 Block 50/52 aircraft to Oman under the possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) programme.

According to the DSCA, the estimated cost of the contract is $3.5 billion.

Under the contract, the company will provide associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for the 18 F-16 Block 50/52 aircraft.

DSCA will also upgrade the existing 12 F-16 Block 50/52 aircraft (Emphasis added—Ed.), site survey, support equipment, tanker support, ferry services, Cartridge Actuated Devices/Propellant Actuated Devices (CAD/PAD), conformal fuel tanks, construction, modification kits, repair and return, modification kits and other related elements of logistics support.

The proposed sale will significantly increase the Royal Air Force of Oman’s (RAFO) capability to train with US and coalition forces and augment coalition forces in a regional conflict.

With the F-16 Block 50/52, Oman will be able to support its air defence needs and coalition operations simultaneously.

Currently, Oman has 12 F-16s in its inventory and will add 18 more aircraft into its armed forces.