Argentina - T-6 Aircraft Sustainment

The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Argentina of T-6 Aircraft Sustainment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $73 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of Argentina has requested to buy follow-on sustainment and support of their T-6 Texan aircraft fleet, to include the following aircraft hardware and software modifications and support: major and minor modifications include airframe and avionics improvements for reliability and integration of training munitions and external fuel tanks; aircraft and engine support equipment, components, consumables, spare parts and repair/return; publications and technical documentation; heavy maintenance support; other U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support services, and related elements of program support. The estimated total cost is $73 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major Non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in South America. It is in the U.S. national interest to assist Argentina in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

The proposed renewal of T-6 aircraft support will provide the Government of Argentina with the capability to meet current and future threats by revitalizing Argentina’s trainer aircraft capabilities and to aid in the overall development of a professional pilot corps. Argentina is committed to modernizing its military and will have no difficulty absorbing the additional sustainment into its armed forces.

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

The principal contractor will be Textron Aviation Defense, Wichita, KS. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale may require the assignment of additional U.S. Government and/or U.S. contractor representatives to Argentina to support program and financial management reviews.

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. The description and dollar value is for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.