Department of Defense Approves $3.5Bln Sale of Cargo Copters to Saudi Arabia

The US Department of State has approved a possible $3.51 billion sale of Chinook cargo helicopters and related equipment to Saudi Arabia, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a release.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Saudi Arabia has requested 48 helicopters, 112 engines, 116 Global Positioning System navigation devices, 58 missile warning systems and 48 machine guns, according to the DSCA.

"The proposed sale of the CH-47F aircraft will improve Saudi Arabia's heavy lift capability," the release stated on Thursday. "Saudi Arabia will use this enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats."

The Boeing Military Aircraft Company and Honeywell Aerospace Company will be prime contractors for the deal.