WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The sale will not alter the military balance in the region and France hopes Lockheed Martin will be the provider of the sale, according to the DSCA.
"The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to France for C-130J aircraft and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $650 million," the release stated on Tuesday.
The DSCA noted the proposed sale will strengthen the French Air Force’s capabilities and will increase its interoperability with the US Air Force.
"The C-130Js will provide critical transport, airdrop, and resupply to thousands of French troops in support of current and future operations," the release explained.
The aircraft will also provide, the release added, crucial air refueling capability to France's fighter aircraft, light transport aircraft as well as to helicopters.
The United States has been increasing its military spending with similar deals to the United Kingdom and Italy, as well as with nations in eastern Europe in an effort to boost defenses in Europe.
