US greenlights $4.67 billion NASAMS air defence systems sale to Egypt

The United States announced on July 24 the approval of a $4.67 billion sale of the NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System) air defence system, along with related support to Egypt.

NASAMS has gained recent prominence on the battlefield, notably after being supplied to Ukraine by its Western allies to enhance its air defence capabilities against Russian assaults.

According to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), cited by foreign media, the proposed sale aims to strengthen Egypt’s ability to detect and counter a range of aerial threats, thereby improving its capacity to address both current and emerging security challenges.

The DSCA also emphasised that the transaction supports the foreign policy and national security interests of the US by bolstering the defence of Egypt, a key non-NATO ally contributing to political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.

While the State Department has approved the potential sale, formal authorisation from the US Congress is still required to finalise the deal.

If completed, the contract would be overseen by RTX Corporation. Approximately 60 US personnel are expected to be deployed to Egypt to assist with training and the installation of the system.

The DSCA assured that the sale will not disrupt the existing military balance in the region and will have no negative impact on US defence readiness.

By Tamilla Hasanova