site.btaUS Approves Possible Sale of Naval Strike Missile Coastal Defense System to Bulgaria

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said on its website: "The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Bulgaria of Naval Strike Missile Coastal Defense System and related equipment for an estimated cost of USD 620 million."

"The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today," according to the report dated July 21.

"The Government of Bulgaria has requested to buy a Naval Strike Missile Coastal Defense System (NSM CDS), including three (3) Link-16 Multifunctional Information Distribution System – Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS) and the following non-MDE items: tactical Naval Strike Missiles (NSM); inert NSM handling; telemetered NSM; operational, inert NSM; mobile fire control centers with associated communications equipment; mobile missile launch vehicles with associated communications equipment; NSM transport loading vehicles; NavStrike-M Global Positioning System receiver; operator trainer consoles; Simple Key Loaders (SKL); and associated support including but not limited to technical publications, training documentation, technical data packages, support equipment, software support spare parts, training, training simulators, integration services, and U.S. government and original equipment manufacturer technical assistance; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is USD 620 million.

"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO Ally that is an important force for political and economic stability in Europe.

"The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

"The principal contractor will be Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace AS, located in Kongsberg, Norway. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

"Implementation of this proposed sale will require the temporary duty travel of three to five U.S. Government and contractor representatives to Bulgaria for a duration of up to five years.

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

"The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded," the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.