The administration of President Barack Obama has notified Congress that
the United States would sell Firefinder radar systems to Iraq. Under the
proposal, Iraq would receive six AN/TPQ-36 [V]10 radars as well as other
systems in a sale estimated at $299 million.
"The proposed sale of the Firefinder radars will advance Iraq's efforts
to develop an integrated ground defense capability and to develop a strong
and dedicated military force," the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.
"The Firefinder radars will enable Iraq to assume some of the missions
currently accomplished by U.S. and coalition forces and to sustain itself in
its efforts to establish stability to Iraq."
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In a statement on March 30, the Defense Department agency said Iraq has
also requested 18 AN/TPQ-48 lightweight counter-mortar radars, three
Meteorological Measuring Sets, 36 export variant Single Channel Ground and
Airborne Radio Systems, six Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems
and three Position and Azimuth Determining Systems.
"The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the
basic military balance in the region," the agency said.
Congress, with 30 days to review the sale, was expected to approve the
Iraqi deal, which would require three years of training and logistics
support. Officials said the the prime contractors would include Thales
Raytheon Systems, Northrop Grumman, Smith-Detection Technologies and ITT.
"There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this
potential sale," the agency said.