US Approves $124Mln Sale of Special Operations Boats to Qatar

According to Defense Security Cooperation Agency, US Department of State has approved a $124-million sale of Mk-V special operations boats and related military equipment to the government of Qatar.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) – The US Department of State has approved a $124-million sale of Mk-V special operations boats and related military equipment to the government of Qatar, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a press release on Tuesday.

"The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Qatar for Mk-V Fast Patrol Boats, equipment, training and support," the release stated. "The estimated cost is $124.02 million."

The sale includes eight M2HB.50 caliber machine guns and ammunition, MLG 27mm gun systems and related ammunition as well as training and support services, the agency noted.

Mississippi-based United States Marine Incorporated (USMI) is listed as the principal contractor.

The proposed sale is intended to provide Qatar with the capabilities to protect its maritime security and infrastructure, according to DSCA.

Qatar is a key US military ally in the Middle East. The small nation hosts an important US military base, from where US forces have launched airstrikes at the Islamic State group’s positions in Syria and Iraq.