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The United States has approved a potential $1.08 billion sale of 11 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and related military equipment to Mexico, the State Department said on Friday, in a move aimed at deepening security cooperation with its southern neighbour.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the possible sale, the State Department said. Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is the principal contractor for the package, which covers the 11 helicopters along with associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support.
The approval is a determination that the sale can go ahead. It does not mean the deal has been concluded. Congress has been notified under the Arms Export Control Act and has 30 days to review the sale before any contract is signed.
The helicopters would strengthen Mexico's ability to move troops and supplies by air and support its forces in the fight against organised crime and drug trafficking organisations, a mission the two countries have pursued together for years. Mexico already flies Black Hawks delivered under earlier American sales.