The State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale of AH-1W helicopter equipment and services to Bahrain. 

The potential $350 million sale includes the refurbishment of 24 “Excess Defense Article” AH-1W Super Cobra multi-role helicopters and a full-motion Aircraft Procedures Trainer, along with missile launchers, spare aircraft engines, spare parts, support, training, publications and other logistics and program support.

The helicopters are used to fulfill maritime patrol, close air support and search and rescue missions.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the sale will support the United States’ foreign policy and national security objectives by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally in the Middle East. 

Bell Corporation will be the principal contractor for the sale. 

The sale is not expected to have an adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness, the DCSA said.