US proposes Blackhawk sale to Thailand http://today.reuters.com/news/articlenews.aspx?type=politicsNews&storyid=2006-04-07T230258Z_01_N07283225_RTRUKOC_0_US-ARMS-USA-THAILAND.xml
Fri Apr 7, 2006
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Bush administration told Congress on Friday it was tentatively planning to sell Thailand the special operations version of the Blackhawk helicopter in a deal worth up to $246 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said Thailand has requested up to six of the MH-60S helicopters, made by United Technologies Corp. unit Sikorsky Aircraft, plus 14 engines, spare parts and various support services.
Thailand's need to enhance its maritime defense and disaster relief capabilities was highlighted during the recent tsunami search and rescue operations, the agency said.
"It will contribute to the U.S. foreign policy and national security by helping to improve the security of an ally," the notice to Congress said. "There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale."
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