The U.S. State Department has greenlit a significant military sale to Kuwait, valued at approximately $325 million, aimed at providing sustainment support and related equipment for the M1A2 Abrams main battle tank systems. This potential agreement is notable as it encompasses comprehensive services and equipment designed to support Kuwait’s existing legacy M1A2 tanks alongside its more recent M1A2K variants.
Included in the proposed deal are essential repair parts, spare parts, replacement materials, and other logistics and program support components critical for maintaining the functionality and operational readiness of Kuwait’s armored capabilities. Currently, Kuwait operates around 218 Abrams tanks, which underscores the importance of this support to ensure they remain at high operational standards.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency emphasized that the proposed sale would significantly enhance Kuwait’s defense capabilities, enabling the nation to address existing and evolving threats more effectively. This initiative is also part of Kuwait’s broader strategy to meet its modernization and professionalization goals within its armed forces.
General Dynamics Land Systems is set to serve as the primary contractor for this deal. It is noteworthy that no offset agreement has been proposed in conjunction with this sale.
This latest transaction builds on a series of previous approvals concerning military support to Kuwait. In December, the U.S. approved a $300 million deal focused on providing military vehicle maintenance and sustainment capabilities. Additionally, a $250 million sale of M1A2K tank ammunition was authorized in September 2022, indicating a sustained commitment to bolstering Kuwait’s military readiness.
As part of its strategic defense modernization efforts, Kuwait is expected to allocate a record $6.1 billion to defense spending in 2024, with projections showing annual growth exceeding 3 percent from 2025 through 2029. This ongoing investment reflects Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities amid a complex regional security environment.
