US plans M109A5 self-propelled howitzer sale to Morocco

US plans M109A5 self-propelled howitzer sale to Morocco

(03.08.07 US Defense Security Cooperation Agency [USA])

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign
Military Sale to Morocco of M109A5 155mm self-propelled howitzers as well as
associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are
exercised, could be as high as $29 million. The Government of Morocco has
requested a possible sale of 60 M109A5 155mm self-propelled howitzers, 30 High
Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) engines, 233 wheel assemblies,
spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical
documentation, personnel training and training equipment, Quality Assurance
Team support services, US Government logistics personnel services, and other
related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $29 million. This
sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the US by
helping to improve the security of a friendly country that continues to be an
important force for political stability and economic progress in North Africa.
Morocco currently operates M109A1B self-propelled howitzers and will use this
new procurement to re-equip existing units, retire older artillery pieces, and
modernize the Army’s fire support capability. Morocco will have no difficulty
absorbing the howitzers into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this
equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region.
No contractor is involved for this purchase of the howitzers. Equipment is
considered long supply and is no longer utilized by the US Government. There
will be a US Government Quality Assurance Team in country for one year to check
out the equipment. A Technical Assistance Field Team also will participate for
two-week intervals twice annually to participate in program management and
technical reviews. There will be no adverse impact on US defense readiness as
a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by
law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.