With its recent approval of a series of major Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Kuwait, the United States has underscored the enduring security partnership between the two nations.

The military sales support Kuwait's ongoing mission to modernize its defense capabilities, particularly those related to missile defense and infrastructure.

Kuwait maintains numerous active FMS contracts with the United States, underscoring Washington's ongoing commitment to Kuwait's security.

The United States and Kuwait have a long legacy of military support and cooperation.

In February, the US State Department approved a potential FMS to Kuwait for the design and construction of a new defense ministry headquarters complex.

The project will include US services to support the procurement and improvement of maritime and land facilities at Mohammed Al-Ahmad Naval Base and affiliated locations, and the Ras Al Ard Naval Base for Onshore Logistics.

It also will support the development of an alternate logistics station in Kuwait, as well as construction of the defense ministry headquarters complex.

According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, US contractors and personnel will be sent to Kuwait for up to 12 years to provide construction management and oversight.

They will provide services including life cycle design, construction, project management, engineering studies and services, technical support, facility and infrastructure assessments, surveys, planning, programming and design.

They also will assist with acquisition, contract administration, construction management, logistics, other technical services and other related elements of logistics and program support.

Patriot upgrade

The US State Department in April approved a FMS to Kuwait for the procurement of Patriot Post-Deployment Build 8.1 and related equipment.

This will help Kuwait continue to modernize its integrated missile defense system and expand the capabilities of its existing Patriot missile defense systems.

Capable of intercepting missiles at long ranges and high altitudes, the Patriot is the global first choice in integrated missile defense and in use with 19 nations.

The package delivered to Kuwait will include the Patriot Post-Deployment Build 8.1 software, along with associated equipment and services.

The upgrade encompasses software development, delivery and support, maintenance, spare parts, personnel training and other logistical support services.

As a follow-on to the deal, US government and contractor representatives will provide Kuwait with periodic maintenance and sustainment support for up to a decade.

Strategic implications

The recent approvals of military sales reflect the US commitment to supporting Kuwait's defense and security needs.

The Patriot system will enhance Kuwait's ability to respond to aerial regional threats and contribute to the expanded interoperability of defense systems between the United States and its partners in the Gulf.

US support for the construction of Kuwait's defense ministry headquarters signifies a substantial investment in Kuwait's military infrastructure.