US considers Saudi MMSC ships sale
The US state department has approved a potential foreign military sale to Saudi Arabia for Multi-Mission Surface Combatant (MMSC) ships and associated parts, equipment and logistical support for around $11.25 billion, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on 20 October.
The government of Saudi Arabia has requested the vessels as part of a naval modernisation programme as it seeks to enhance the stability and maritime security in the sea areas around the Arabian Peninsula.
Four MMSC ships have been requested, with supporting equipment including the TRS-4D radar, Mode 4- and Mode 5-capable Identification Friend or Foe systems, and five compact low frequency active passive variable depth sonars.
Weapon systems requested include the MK-41 vertical launch system, 532 tactical RIM-162 evolved sea sparrow missiles; five AN/SWG-l (V) Harpoon ship command launch control systems; eight Harpoon Shipboard Launchers; 48 RGM-84 Harpoon Block II Missiles; five MK-15 Mod 31 SeaRAM Close-In Weapon System; 188 RIM 116C Block II Rolling Airframe Missiles; five MK-75 76mm OTO Melara Gun Systems; and 48 50-calibre machine guns.
Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module Global Positioning System/Precise Positioning Service (GPS/PPS) navigation equipment has also been requested.
If the sale goes ahead, Lockheed Martin will be the principal contractor for the MMSC.
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Naval modernisation accelerates amid geopolitical tension and tech evolution]()
Naval modernisation accelerates amid geopolitical tension and tech evolution
The global naval market is undergoing a notable transformation, with growth driven by both escalating geopolitical tensions and the emergence of innovative technologies. Across NATO, but particularly in Europe, navies are accelerating modernisation efforts, spurred by renewed threats and persistent capability gaps.
-
![Two new European logistics support vessels enter sea trials]()
Two new European logistics support vessels enter sea trials
The two Logistic Support Ships (LSS), contracted under Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation, (OCCAR), should be commissioned into service later in 2025.
-
![Ireland steps up European defence co-operation in the face of Russian activity]()
Ireland steps up European defence co-operation in the face of Russian activity
Ireland is militarily neutral but has joined a European Union (EU) rapid reaction force and a European information sharing group.
-
![Raytheon’s Barracuda completes anti-mine tests as company looks to expand role]()
Raytheon’s Barracuda completes anti-mine tests as company looks to expand role
Raytheon successfully completed tests in February of the Barracuda uncrewed underwater vehicle (UUV) mine-neutralisation system which the company is building for the US Navy (USN).
-
![UK Royal Navy Type 31 frigate enters capability insertion period with Babcock]()
UK Royal Navy Type 31 frigate enters capability insertion period with Babcock
The capability insertion phase will upgrade the navy's Type 31 frigates with modern systems in addition to those specified during its design phase.
