Three Year Program Would Be Conducted In Tucson, AZ

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Wednesday of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Singapore of defined order training for a three-year pilot training program at the Tucson Air National Guard Base in Arizona. Training includes F-16 Basic, Transition, Conversion/International Advanced Weapons, and Instructor Pilot Upgrade courses.

The Government of Singapore has requested a possible sale of defined order training for a three-year pilot training program that specifies the number and type of pilot training slots with an option to extend at the Tucson Air National Guard Base in Arizona. Training includes F-16 Basic, Transition, Conversion/International Advanced Weapons, and Instructor Pilot Upgrade courses. Also included are related program requirements necessary to sustain a long-term CONUS training program. The estimated cost is $150 million.

The DSCA says this proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that has been, and continues to be, an important force for economic progress in Southeast Asia. This proposed sale will augment the Republic of Singapore's self-defense capability and ensure interoperability with U.S. forces for coalition operations.

The agency says Singapore needs the training to develop mission-ready and experienced pilots to support its current and future F-16 aircraft inventory. The well-established pilot proficiency training program at Tucson ANGB will continue professional interaction and enhance operational interoperability with U.S. forces. It asserts that the proposed contract will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

FMI: www.dsca.osd.mil