Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — The United States has approved the transfer of military helicopters for Lebanon.

The administration of President Barack Obama has informed Congress that Washington would deliver U.S.-origin utility helicopters for the Lebanese military. Under the Lebanese request, the United States would supply 18 Huey-2 helicopters as well as training and spare parts.

“The proposed sale of these aircraft will enable Lebanon to meet present and future challenges posed by internal and border security threats, evacuations, search and rescue, and drug interdiction operations,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

In a statement on Sept. 17, the Pentagon agency said the Huey-2 would replace the Lebanese military’s fleet of UH-1H helicopters. The military has already purchased a Huey-2 platform, produced by Bell Helicopter.

“Lebanon will have no difficulty absorbing these additional aircraft into its armed forces,” DSCA said.

Officials said the State Department has approved the Lebanese request, estimated at $180 million. They acknowledged concern within Congress that the helicopters could come under the control of the Iranian-sponsored Hizbullah, which dominates Lebanon’s military and security forces.

DSCA said the Huey-2 would be used in counter-insurgency missions. The agency said the proposed sale, expected to be approved by Congress, did not include offsets.

“Implementation of this proposed sale will require multiple trips to Lebanon involving U.S. government and contractor representatives over a period of up to three years to provide program support and training,” DSCA said.

  Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Huey-2, Some in Congress fear Hizbullah will get U.S. copters approved for Lebanon, WorldTribune.com