Wednesday, December 17, 2008

"The sale of these patrol boats and support vessels will enhance the ability of the Iraqi naval forces to sustain themselves in their efforts to bring stability to their country, prevent overflow of unrest into neighboring countries, and protect their maritime oil platforms and territorial waters," the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said on Dec. 10.

The Pentagon agency has informed Congress that Iraq has requested that the boats be equipped with weapons. Officials said the proposed sale could exceed $1 billion.