The United States (U.S) State Department has given its approval for the potential sale of ammunition, precision bombs, and rockets to Nigeria, valued at an estimated $346 million.
In a statement issued by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on Wednesday, August 13, Nigeria’s request includes: 1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500 lb bombs, 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups (AFGs), 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II, high-explosive warheads, and MK66-4 rocket motors.
The deal also includes other crucial items, such as joint programmable fuzes, bomb components, impulse cartridges, and technical and logistical support from the U.S. government and its contractors.
The primary contractors for this sale are Lockheed Martin, RTX Missiles and Defence, and BAE Systems.
These global defence giants are known for a wide range of military technologies, from advanced aircraft and missile systems to naval ships and defence electronics.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a strategic partner in Sub-Saharan Africa,” the DSCA said.
“The proposed sale will improve Nigeria’s capability to meet current and future threats through operations against terrorist organisations and to counter illicit trafficking in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.”
The DSCA stated that this sale will not change the fundamental military balance in the region and that Nigeria’s armed forces will have no trouble integrating the new munitions.
The agency noted that the stated dollar value is an estimate for the maximum possible quantity.
The final cost will likely be lower, depending on the specific equipment Nigeria decides to purchase, its final budget, and the terms of the signed agreement.
This is not the first major arms deal between the two countries.
In 2022, the U.S. approved a separate sale of military equipment to Nigeria valued at an estimated $997 million.
That package included 12 attack helicopters, 2,000 advanced precision kill weapon system guidance sections, and a night vision imaging system.
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