Washington has approved the sale of six Chinook helicopters and other military equipment to the United Arab Emirates for an estimated amount of more than $1.4 billion, the US administration announced, quoted by AFP, BTA reported.
The news was announced on the eve of US President Donald Trump's departure for a tour of the Middle East, where he will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE.
His trip is focused on the economy, which he hopes will be filled with the signing of significant contracts in diverse areas ranging from defense and aviation to energy and artificial intelligence. Trump is also expected to discuss geopolitical issues during the trip, particularly Gaza and Iran.
The sale of the helicopters "will contribute to the national security and foreign policy of the United States, allowing us to support the security of an important regional partner. The UAE is an important partner of the United States for the political stability and economic development of the Middle East," the Defense and Security Cooperation Agency of the US Department of Defense announced.
In addition to the Chinook military transport helicopters from the American manufacturer Boeing, a deal worth $130 million has been approved for maintenance of F-16 fighter jets.
The agreements with the UAE have been approved by the State Department, and the US Congress has 30 days to declare itself against them if necessary.