The US Department of State has given its approval for a potential Foreign Military Sale to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which includes AW-119Kx helicopters and related equipment, with an estimated value of $100 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of this potential transaction last Tuesday.

The request from Bosnia and Herzegovina includes not only the helicopters but also a comprehensive package of essential services and materials. This encompasses specialized training for pilots and maintenance technicians, on-site contractor support, program management reviews, and technical assistance. Support for products, aviation-specific ground equipment, platform equipment, hardware, special tools, test equipment, and essential consumable items to maintain operational capability will also be provided. The package further includes quality assurance inspections, inventories, validation and verification testing both on the ground and in flight, air transport for delivery, initial spare parts, repair services, consumable materials, operational and technical manuals, as well as engineering, technical, and logistical support services from the US government and contractors. The total estimated cost for the entire operation is indeed $100 million.

The proposed sale is considered a key step to support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. By strengthening the security of a key partner, Washington aims to promote political stability and economic progress in the European region.

For the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH), the acquisition of these helicopters will significantly enhance their ability to tackle present and future threats, allowing greater participation in regional cooperative exercises and with NATO. The new aircraft will be crucial in protecting Bosnia’s national security interests, especially across its mountainous and hard-to-access territories. Additionally, the AW-119Kx will provide essential support for disaster relief missions, search and rescue operations, and other humanitarian activities within the country, also contributing to pilot training.

The Pentagon has assured that the sale will not alter the fundamental military balance in the region.

The primary contractor responsible for the provision will be Leonardo Helicopters US, AgustaWestland Philadelphia Corporation, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Currently, the US government is not aware of any offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale; any such arrangements will be defined during negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

It is important to emphasize that the description and dollar value represent the highest estimate based on initial requirements. The final actual value of the agreement may be lower, depending on final requirements, budgetary authorizations, and the conclusion of any signed sales agreements.