WASHINGTON — The US Department of State approved a series of potential military sales to Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, totaling more than $7.6 billion, as regional tensions remain elevated.
The agency cleared the possible sale of Patriot air and missile defense replenishment services and related equipment to Qatar valued at $4.01 billion.
It also approved the sale of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) to Qatar worth $992 million, and to the United Arab Emirates valued at $147.6 million.
Separately, Washington authorized the potential sale of an Integrated Battle Command System to Kuwait for $2.5 billion.
The approvals come amid heightened regional tensions following strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on Feb. 28, which triggered actions by Tehran targeting U.S. allies in the Gulf and disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Source: Saudi Gazette