Egypt is set to receive 12 more Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules transporters following approval by the US State Department, although the decision still requires a formal go-ahead by Congress

The deal is believed to be worth $2.2 billion and includes contracts for additional training.

In the supporting documentation the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said, “The proposed sale will improve Egypt’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing airlift support for its forces by moving supplies, equipment, and people, thus strengthening its capacity in the security and humanitarian arena.

“This airlift capability would assist with border security, the interdiction of known terrorist elements, rapid reaction to internal security threats, and humanitarian aid. Egypt also intends to utilize these aircraft for maritime patrol missions and search and rescue missions in the region.

“Egypt, which already operates a mix of legacy C-130s, will have no difficulty absorbing these aircraft and services into its armed forces,” the DSCA report said.

The Government of Egypt has requested to purchase 60 Rolls Royce AE-2100D turboprop engines with 12 of those as spares.

The US government said, “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally that continues to be an important strategic partner in the Middle East.”