The United States Department of State has approved a request from Kuwait. This is to upgrade and recertify its Patriot missile systems in a deal estimated to be worth around $400 million.
Under the proposed agreement, Kuwait’s existing Patriot PAC-2 Guidance Enhancement Missiles and Patriot Guidance Enhancement Missiles-Tactical will undergo modernization. The upgrades will significantly improve missile accuracy, reliability, and effectiveness against aerial threats. These include tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones.
The approval comes at a time of increased tensions and instability in the Gulf region. This is particularly following recent clashes involving US forces and Houthi rebels. Ensuring operational readiness of Kuwait’s Patriot defense systems is considered critical amid these heightened threats.
Currently, Kuwait operates both PAC-2 and PAC-3 variants of the Patriot missile defense systems.
According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, “The proposed sale will enhance Kuwait’s ability to address current and future threats. It will assist the nation in maintaining high operational readiness and achieving its modernization goals. Kuwait will have no difficulty integrating these upgraded systems into its existing armed forces.”
RTX has been identified as the principal contractor for the proposed deal. As of now, no offset agreements have been proposed. Although, such agreements may be negotiated separately between Kuwait and the contractor.
