News reports and official statements from the U.S. or Egyptian governments

U.S. Approves Over $5 Billion Arms Sale to Egypt, Including 555 Tanks and 2,183 Hellfire Missiles

Dec 21, 2024, 10:15 AM

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential military sales package to Egypt valued at over $5 billion. This package includes the sale of 555 M1A1 Abrams main battle tanks, which will be upgraded to the M1A1 SA standard, and 2,183 Hellfire AGM-114R missiles. The tank upgrade is estimated to cost approximately $4.69 billion, while the missile sale is valued at around $630 million. This arms deal reflects Egypt's growing strategic partnership with the U.S., particularly in the context of regional security concerns. The approval comes amid ongoing scrutiny regarding Egypt's human rights record, but the U.S. government emphasizes the importance of Egypt as a key ally in the Middle East.