US approves potential $445m F-16 support package for Bahrain

The US government has approved a potential foreign military sale to Bahrain worth an estimated $445 million for sustainment services and equipment related to its fleet of F-16 fighter jets. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the possible deal, which is designed to enhance the Kingdom of Bahrain's air force readiness and interoperability with US forces.

Enhancing Regional Deterrence and Interoperability

In its official statement, the DSCA asserted that the proposed sale would improve Bahrain's ability to "meet current and future threats by providing a credible force that can deter adversaries." The agency highlighted that the support package would enable Bahrain to "participate in regional operations with the United States and other U.S. partner nations." This underscores the strategic objective of maintaining a network of capable allied air forces in the Persian Gulf, a region of continued geopolitical tension.

Contractors and Congressional Notification

The principal American contractors for the sustainment work will be General Electric Aerospace, based in Ohio, and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics from Texas. The notification to Congress on Monday initiates a mandatory review period during which lawmakers can potentially block the sale, though such interventions are rare for deals with longstanding allies like Bahrain. The sale involves sustainment—covering maintenance, spare parts, training, and logistical support—rather than the transfer of new aircraft.

Strategic Context of US-Bahrain Relations

Bahrain hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters and is a key partner in US security architecture in the Middle East. This proposed sustainment package follows a pattern of ongoing military support to ensure the operational viability of US-origin platforms in allied nations. The deal reinforces Washington's commitment to Gulf security partnerships at a time of regional uncertainty, aiming to ensure that allies can effectively operate advanced US-made defense systems for years to come.