The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters to the government of the United Arab Emirates.

The foreign military sales request includes 28 remanufactured helicopters in addition to 39 AN/ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation sensors, 32 AN/APR-48B Modernized Radar Frequency Interferometers, 46 AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems, 88 Embedded Global Positioning Systems, and other supporting equipment.

If approved by Congress, the UAE's order will also come with training devices, technical data and publications, and other supporting services. The total estimated cost of the program is $3.5 billion.

U.S. defense officials say the sale enhances foreign policy interests in the region, and will not alter the balance of power in the Middle East. Boeing and Lockheed Martin are listed as the primary contractors.

The Boeing-made AH-64 Apache is a four-blade rotary-wing aircraft typically equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods. The AH-64E variant comes with improved landing gear to support maritime operations.

U.S. State Dept. approves C-17 logistics, support for Qatar
Washington (UPI) Dec 9, 2016 - The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sales of C-17 logistic support services and engine spares to the government of Qatar.

One foreign military sale request includes logistic support services for eight C-17 Globemaster aircraft in addition to sustainment engineering, on-site COMSEC support, equipment repair, and spares replenishment. If approved, the deal is estimated to cost $700 million.

In a separate order, Qatar requested four spare F117-PW-100 engines, Quick Engine Change Kits, Engine Transport Trailers, and Engine Platforms at an estimated cost of $81 million.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency says the proposed sales will aid Qatar's ability to operate and maintain its C-17 fleet as well as advance U.S. foreign policy interests for a critical regional ally. The agency adds Qatar's military will have no difficulty absorbing the new equipment.

Boeing is the only listed prime contractor for both proposed sales.

The Boeing-made C-17 Globemaster is a military transport aircraft with humanitarian applications. The plane is designed to move large payloads, and is used by over 90 countries around the world.