WASHINGTON, Nov 18, 2015 - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Argentina for Bell 412EP helicopters and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $80 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on November 17, 2015.

The Government of Argentina requested a possible sale of four (4) Bell 412EP Helicopters, Bell 412EP Helicopter major components, spare parts, tools, publications, pilot and maintenance training, preparation of the aircraft for shipment, ground support equipment, and U.S. Government technical assistance. The estimated cost is $80 million.

The proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by providing Argentina with air mobility capabilities to support various missions, including humanitarian assistance and peacekeeping. This potential sale will provide additional opportunities for bilateral engagements and further strengthen the bilateral relationship between the United States and Argentina.

The Government of Argentina intends to use these aircraft for search and rescue operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, peacekeeping support, scientific operations in the Antarctic, and other missions. The proposed sale will improve Argentina’s standardization of operational procedures, logistics, and associated maintenance and augment its current inventory of U.S.-origin utility helicopters. Argentina will have no difficulty absorbing these helicopters into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractor will be Bell Helicopter Textron Inc., in Fort Worth, Texas. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

A sole source has been requested for the original equipment manufacturer, Bell Helicopter Textron, Fort Worth, Texas.

There will be no adverse impact on United States defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.