The US State Department has given the green light for a potential sale of four M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) to Bahrain, with an estimated value of $500 million, contingent upon Congressional approval. This significant deal encompasses not only the artillery systems but also three field artillery tactical data systems, M28A2 low-cost practice rocket pods, fire direction centers mounted on high-mobility multi-purpose wheeled vehicles, and M1084A3 HIMARS resupply vehicles.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, this proposed sale is aimed at bolstering Bahrain’s military capabilities. It is expected to enhance Bahrain’s ability to address both current and future threats, significantly improving its capacity for providing vital support to US installations and personnel within the country. Additionally, it will enable Bahrain to better integrate into US-led coalitions and operate independently in defense of US interests and the safety of US forces in the region.
Lockheed Martin, based in Texas, has been identified as the principal contractor for this potential sale, with no offset agreements proposed at this time.
Bahrain, recognized as a major non-NATO ally of the US, plays a crucial role in regional security as the host of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet. The sale comes in the wake of heightened tensions in the region, especially following missile launches by Tehran targeting Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar during the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict in June.
Currently, HIMARS units are operated only by a few countries in the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates and Jordan. These systems can launch six guided rockets with an effective range of 70 kilometers (approximately 37 miles) or a single Army Tactical Missile System capable of reaching distances up to 300 kilometers (about 186 miles). The introduction of HIMARS to Bahrain’s arsenal is seen as a pivotal enhancement to its defense capabilities amid evolving regional dynamics.
