*** US Approves $1.96 Billion Weapons Sale to Saudi Arabia | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

US Approves $1.96 Billion Weapons Sale to Saudi Arabia

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Washington DC: The US State Department has approved an estimated $1.96 billion weapons sale to bolster Saudi Arabia's air defenses.

Officials confirmed Wednesday that the deal aims to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally that acts as a force for political stability in the Gulf.

The extensive procurement package includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems and matching warheads. BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Jersey, has been named as the principal contractor for the defense manufacturing project.

This major military authorization arrives as Saudi Arabia faces the threat of renewed conflict with Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi forces. Tensions spiked on Monday after Houthi militants launched retaliatory missiles targeting an airport in the southern Saudi city of Abha.

According to the State Department, the advanced precision systems offer an inexpensive way to destroy targets while strictly limiting close-combat collateral damage.

The deal will enhance homeland defense capabilities without adversely impacting US military readiness.