US approves sale of 13,981 high explosive rounds to Israel

The US Secretary of State has authorised a Foreign Military Sale to Israel, entailing 120mm M830A1 High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer (MPAT) tank cartridges and associated equipment, at an estimated cost of $106.5 million.

According to the official press release, “The Secretary of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Israel of 120mm M830A1 High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer (MPAT) tank cartridges and related equipment.”

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in its notification to Congress dated December 8, 2023, specified Israel’s request to acquire “thirteen thousand nine hundred eighty-one (13,981) 120mm M830A1 High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer (MPAT) tank cartridges.”

Additionally, the sale includes “publications and technical documentation; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; studies and surveys; and other related elements of logistics and program support.”

The Secretary of State, in justifying this sale to Congress, cited an emergency that necessitates the immediate provision of these defence articles and services to Israel, aligning with the national security interests of the United States. This action bypasses the usual Congressional review requirements under Section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act.

The press release states, “The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives.” It is further noted that the inclusion of this equipment will not significantly change the basic military balance in the region.

This sale, which will be fulfilled from the U.S. Army inventory, does not involve any known offset agreements. The implementation will not require additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives in Israel, and will not impact U.S. defence readiness.

The statement clarifies that the mentioned cost is the maximum estimated value, subject to adjustments based on Israel’s final requirements and any subsequent sales agreement.