US flags 'billions' in Saudi arms

[cal04]

THE Pentagon notified the US Congress overnight of possible sales to Saudi Arabia of M1 Abrams tanks and upgrades of AH-64 attack helicopters valued at as much as $US3.3 billion.

It followed a notification last week of an even bigger proposed sale to Saudi Arabia, involving more than $US6 billion in light armoured vehicles, Black Hawk helicopters and other gear.

The notification calls for the sale of 58 modified and upgraded M1A1 tanks and upgrades to 315 MIA2 tanks already in Saudi Arabia's inventory. The Pentagon estimated the cost at 2.9 billion dollars.

"The proposed sale and upgrade will allow Saudi Arabia to operate and exercise a more lethal and survivable M1A2S tank for the protection of critical infrastructure," a Pentagon statement said.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19949413-1702,00.html

[DoYouEverWonder]

1. Imagine if Russia

sold Iran and/or Venezuela this much weaponry. We would throw a fit.

What would happen if all arms sales were banned? No more money wasted on bigger and better ways to kill each other.

[tech3149]

3. no need to imagine

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19914729-2703,00.html

The self-styled leftist revolutionary will sign an agreement with President Vladimir Putin to buy 30 Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets and 30 military helicopters worth $US1billion.

The two leaders will also discuss plans to build two Kalashnikov factories in Venezuela - to add to the 100,000 Kalashnikov AK-103 assault rifles Venezuela has bought from Russia in the past year.

The arms deals - and the visit by Mr Chavez - are the latest evidence of Mr Putin's drive to re-establish Russia as a counterbalance to the West in international affairs.

[sinkingfeeling]

2. Yes sir, just want the Saudis need..."more lethal and survivable M1A2S."

[Skink]

4. Remember the good ol days when we just had bases there.

[onehandle]

5. Saudi's planned and financed 9/11.

Is this sale ok with you freepers out there?