US approves $346m sale of precision bombs, rockets to Nigeria
Story by Susan Mbamah
Nigeria’s fight against terrorist groups is set to receive a significant boost as the U.S. government has approved a potential foreign military sale worth an estimated $346 million.
This deal would equip the Nigerian Armed Forces with a range of advanced munitions and precision-guided weapons.
The U.S. State Department, through the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), certified the deal to Congress, clearing the way for the supply of precision-guided bombs, rockets, and other related equipment.
According to the DSCA, Nigeria’s request includes a variety of advanced weaponry:
1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500 lb bombs
1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups for Paveway II GBU-12
515 MXU-1006 Air Foil Groups for Paveway II GBU-58
1,517 MAU-169 or MAU-209 computer control groups
1,002 FMU-152 joint programmable fuzes
5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) rounds, each with a guidance section, high-explosive warhead, and MK66-4 rocket motor
READ ALSO: Syrian TV anchor flees during live broadcast as Israeli bombs strike defence ministry (Video)
The package also includes other vital components like fuzes, bomb parts, and technical support from the U.S. government and contractors.
The State Department stated that the deal “supports the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a strategic partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.” It also noted that the sale would enhance Nigeria’s ability to combat terrorism, insurgency, and illicit trafficking, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea region.
The DSCA confirmed that the transaction “will not alter the basic military balance in West Africa.” The principal contractors involved are RTX Missiles and Defense, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and BAE Systems. No U.S. personnel will be deployed to Nigeria to oversee the sale, and the deal will not impact U.S. military readiness.
While the deal is estimated at $346 million, the final cost could be lower based on Nigeria’s specific needs and contract negotiations.
READ ALSO: Nigerian army repels Boko Haram’s invasion of Maiduguri
This development comes as Nigeria continues to intensify its counter-terrorism operations against groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
