The U.S. State Department has announced the approval of several Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Egypt, with an estimated total value exceeding $5.4 billion.

These sales are designed to bolster Egypt’s defence capabilities and reinforce its strategic alliance with the United States.

The largest proposed sale is for the refurbishment and upgrade of 555 M1A1 Abrams tanks to the M1A1SA configuration. This upgrade will involve the installation of advanced equipment such as AN/VAS-5B Driver Vision Enhancer Kits, Thermal Imaging System (TIS) Gunner’s Sights, AGT-1500 tank engines, X-1100 tank transmissions, and spare parts.

According to the FMS notice, “The estimated total program cost is $4.69 billion.” The refurbishment will take place at the Egyptian Tank Plant in Cairo, with General Dynamics Land Systems as the principal contractor.

Additionally, the FMS includes a request for the purchase of 2,183 Hellfire AGM-114R missiles, valued at approximately $630 million. These missiles will enhance Egypt’s ability to defend against regional threats, with a focus on improving interoperability with U.S. forces and partners in the region. The FMS notice states, “The estimated total cost is $630 million,” with Lockheed Martin identified as the principal contractor.

Furthermore, Egypt has requested 543 additional Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) for $30 million. The FMS notice explains, “The estimated total cost is $30 million,” and highlights that the sale will improve Egypt’s ability to conduct counterterrorism operations, particularly in North Sinai. BAE Systems will serve as the contractor for the APKWS sale.

These sales are part of Egypt’s ongoing efforts to modernise its military and ensure its ability to address current and future security challenges, says the notice. As noted in the FMS documents, “The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”

The U.S. government has stressed that these sales will have no adverse impact on U.S. defence readiness.