Bahrain Cleared for $500M HIMARS Deal With U.S.

The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Bahrain of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and related equipment, valued at an estimated $500 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the potential deal on Thursday.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf following recent Iranian ballistic missile launches targeting U.S. positions in the region.

The Bahraini request covers four M142 HIMARS launchers and three International Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems. The package also includes rocket pods, resupply vehicles, fire direction centers, GPS receivers, simulators, generators, spare parts, software, construction support, and training. Five U.S. government personnel and 10 contractors are expected to deploy to Bahrain for at least four months to support integration and training.

The DSCA said the sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening a non-NATO ally in the Gulf. Bahrain hosts the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet and is seen as a key partner in regional security. According to the agency, the proposed deal would improve Bahrain’s ability to counter threats, protect U.S. personnel and facilities, and integrate more effectively with U.S.-led coalitions.

Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor.

Bahrain joins other regional states—including the U.A.E., Jordan, and Saudi Arabia—that have acquired or trained with HIMARS, a mobile rocket system capable of launching guided rockets and missiles.