US approves THAAD missile defence for Saudi Arabia for $15bn

Washington [United States], Oct 7 (ANI): The U.S. State department has approved the likelihood of the sale of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD), a U.S. missile defence system, to Saudi Arabia's Government for an estimated cost of 15 billion dollars.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), in a statement, said, "This sale furthers U.S. national security and foreign policy interests, and supports the long-term security of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region in the face of Iranian and other regional threats."

The Saudi Government has requested 44 THAAD launchers, Interceptor missiles, Fire Control and THAAD radars. Also included are, THAAD Battery maintenance equipment, generators, electrical power units, trailers, communications, publications and technical documentation and other related elements of logistics.

"This potential sale will substantially increase Saudi Arabia's capability to defend itself against the growing ballistic missile threat in the region," the statement added.

Lockheed Martin and Raytheon are the principal contractors for the THAAD system. (ANI)

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