The US State Department has approved a possible foreign military sale of equipment necessary for Bahrain’s upgrade of M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS).
The upgrade, should a definitive agreement between the US and Bahrain be reached, has an estimated cost of $175.98 million.
This price tag would include upgrades to nine M270 MLRS to the M270 A1 minimum configuration. The upgrade will include the common fire control system (CFCS), improved launcher mechanical system (ILMS), improved electronics, digital communication systems (DCOMMS), and vehicular intercom systems (AN/VIC-3).
In addition, the effort would include two years spare parts, support and test equipment, and technical and logistics support services.
“The proposed sale will improve Bahrain’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing Bahrain’s ability to defend itself against regional malign actors and improve interoperability with systems operated by US forces and other Gulf countries,” the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement.
“Bahrain’s continued investment in its defensive capabilities is crucial to protecting its borders, energy infrastructure, and its residents, including over 15,000 US citizens and Naval personnel living and working in the country. Bahrain will have no difficulty absorbing these upgraded MLRSs into its armed forces.”
The principal contractor on the upgrade would be Lockheed Martin.
MLRS is a heavy tracked mobile launcher, transportable via C-17 and C-5 aircraft, that fires guided MLRS rockets. In US Army service, the MLRS is being upgraded to be able to fire the Precision Strike Missile and extended-Range GMLRS rockets.
