Thailand asks approval of helicopter sale

A U.S. Foreign Military Sales package for UH-72A Lakota helicopters has been requested by the government of Thailand.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in its required notification to Congress, said the U.S. State Department has already approved the deal, which carries an estimated value of $89 million.

"This proposed sale will contribute to Thailand's goal of upgrading and modernizing its military forces with a new light utility helicopter capable of meeting requirements for rotary-wing transportation, while further enhancing interoperability between Thailand the U.S., and among other allies," the agency said.

The UH-72A Lakota is a twin-engine aircraft first introduced into service in 2007. It has a maximum speed of 167 miles per hour and a range of 426 miles.

Thailand has requested nine aircraft as well as spare and repair parts, support equipment, communication equipment, publications and technical documentation, an Aviation Mission Planning Station, personnel training and training equipment, and logistics support.