US approves $346m arms deal with Nigeria

The United States has given the green light for a possible sale of bombs, rockets, and related military equipment worth $346 million to Nigeria.

In a statement dated August 13 and received on Thursday, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the State Department has authorised the Foreign Military Sale and formally notified Congress.

The proposed package covers 1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500-pound bombs; 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups for 500-pound Paveway II GBU-12; 515 MXU-1006 Air Foil Groups for 250-pound Paveway II GBU-58; 1,517 MAU-169 or MAU-209 computer control groups for Paveway II GBU-12/GBU-58; 1,002 FMU-152 joint programmable fuzes; and 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II all-up-rounds.

It will also include FMU-139 joint programmable fuzes, bomb parts, impulse cartridges, high-explosive and practice rockets, integration support, test equipment, and related logistical services.

According to the DSCA, the sale is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s ability to meet current and future security challenges, particularly in countering terrorist groups and combating illicit trafficking both within the country and in the Gulf of Guinea.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a strategic partner in sub-Saharan Africa,” the statement read, adding that the transaction would not affect the regional military balance or US defence readiness.

The main contractors for the potential sale are RTX Missiles and Defence, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and BAE Systems. No offset agreement has been proposed, but one could be discussed between Nigeria and the suppliers during negotiations.

The DSCA noted that the $346 million figure represents the highest possible cost estimate, with the actual value likely to be lower depending on final requirements, budget approval, and the signing of contracts.