The U.S. State Department has approved the possible recapitalization of 218 M1A2 tanks for the government of Kuwait.

The pending sale includes 240 M2A1 machine guns, 480 7.62 M240 machine guns, 240 AN/VRC-92E SINCGARS radios, 1,085 night vision goggles, technical support, and training services. The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agencywhich manages the Foreign Military Sales program, says the sale is estimated to cost $1.7 billion.

If approved by Congress, the government of Kuwait will use the equipment to modernize its fleet of M1A2 tanks. The U.S. government contends that the proposed sale will benefit foreign policy interests by promoting peace and economic stability in the Middle East, and will not alter the balance of power in the region.

Principal contractors involved in the program include General Dynamics Land Systems, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and various other companies.

The M1A2 Abrams tank is a follow-up to the M1A1, featuring an independent thermal viewer and improved fire control system. The vehicle is manufactured by General Dynamics.