Norway - Procure and Install Equipment on P-3C Aircraft

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Norway for the installation of various aircraft support systems for four P-3C aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support worth an estimated $95 million.

The Government of Norway has requested a possible sale for the procurement and installation of four AN/USQ-78B Acoustic Processor Technology Refresh (APTR), 4 AN/ASQ-227 Aircraft Mission Computers, and 2 Tactical Mobile Acoustic Support Systems on four Royal Norwegian Air Force P-3C aircraft, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated cost is $95 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO ally that has been, and continues to be, an important force for economic and political stability.

The proposed sale will update hardware and ensure the sustainment of data provided to the United States as part of various data sharing agreements already in place with the Government of Norway in the area of anti-submarine warfare. Norway will have no difficulty absorbing the additional equipment into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractor will be Lockheed Martin Corporation in Owego, New York. Offset agreements associated with this proposed sale are expected, but at this time the specific offset agreements are undetermined and will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and contractors.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require U.S. Government and contractor representatives to travel to Norway to participate in periodic program technical reviews, training and support visits, and maintenance and support visits semi-annually for a period of four years.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.


Source: By Marcel van Leeuwen - www.aviationnews.eu (Published August 31, 2011)

Photo: Norway Air Force P-3C Orion [aviationnews.eu]

(1.09.2011)