ACTION REQUEST: U.S. WEAPONS RELEASE TO IRAQ -

UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 02 BAGHDAD 003679 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: IZ MARR MCAP MOPS PGOV PINS PNAT PTER SUBJECT: ACTION REQUEST: U.S. WEAPONS RELEASE TO IRAQ - ANV-20/20 FOCUSING SYSTEM ¶1. (U) This is an action request. Please see para 10. ¶2. (SBU) SUMMARY: The Country Team requests the immediate release of ANV-20/20 NVD Infinity Focus System (NSN: 6625-01-431-8615) to the Government of Iraq. The system will be used by the Iraqi Air Force, the Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Command and Coalition Forces to train and equip a select number of Iraqi pilots for night operations. This training will advance nighttime operational effectiveness while reducing collateral damage risk. The pilots are in training with Coalition Forces right now, and the latter are projected to integrate this equipment into training beginning in December 2007. The USG will fund this as part of an estimated $1.5M acquisition for Night Vision Devices (NVD) through an ISFF Funded Foreign Military Sales case. END SUMMARY. Description of Technology for Release -------------- ¶3. (SBU) ANV-20/20 NVD Infinity Focus Systems ensure proper focus for high quality binocular image clarity essential for safe nighttime operations. They ensure the NVDs operate correctly which directly aids in the selection and clear identification the enemy and reduces the possibility of collateral damage. Rationale for Technology Release -------------- ¶4. (SBU) The Iraqi Armed Forces are in urgent need of a viable aviation night vision capability that will allow them to safely and effectively support Iraqi Security Force and Coalition Force night operations-particularly in conjunction with Coalition Special Operations Forces. Release of the ANV-20/20 NVD Infinity Focus System will greatly enhance their ability to conduct counter-terrorism missions, improve interoperability with Coalition forces, and improve their ability to maintain their own defense and security. Fielding a modern capable night vision capability contributes to eventual Coalition advisory transition of Iraqi aviation assets to independent operations. Iraq Safeguarding Sensitive Technology -------------- ¶5. (SBU) Iraq has demonstrated the intent and ability to protect sensitive, classified military technology since working with U.S. and Coalition forces. An Article 505 agreement (signed by the GOI July 24, 2004) demonstrates Iraq's commitment to protect grant defense articles and technology similar to our standards. Additionally, a Memorandum of Agreement for Compliance for the Storage, Security and Inventory of Night Vision Devices was signed by the Iraqi MOD, 18 November 2005. We will continue to mentor the GOI on their protection of sensitive USG technology in order to provide long-term cooperation with Iraq. We also will obtain all necessary formal agreements with the GOI before transferring any sensitive equipment or technology. Lastly, we will continue to carry out a robust end-use monitoring (EUM) through the GOLDEN SENTRY program. Anticipated Reaction from Neighboring Nations -------------- ¶6. (SBU) We do not anticipate the release of ANV-20/20 NVD Infinity Focus System to the Government of Iraq to adversely affect the regional balance of power or cause negative reactions from neighboring nations, as this system is already fielded in many countries of the region. Iraq's Political Importance to the Region -------------- ¶7. (SBU) A stable, democratically-elected Iraqi government, capable of protecting its people and sovereignty, and remaining at peace with its neighbors is one of the USG's highest priorities. The release and employment of ANV-20/20 NVD Infinity Focus Systems will facilitate progress toward this goal, advancing the Iraqi security forces' ability to identify, target and carry out night operations against anti-Iraqi forces while reducing the risk to self and others. Source of Financing and Economic Impact -------------- BAGHDAD 00003679 002 OF 002 ¶8. (SBU) This purchase will be financed as part of a NVD purchase using Iraqi Security Forces Funds. The total cost of the entire package is estimated at $1.5M. There is no significant economic impact anticipated to be generated by this sale. Relevant Human Rights Considerations -------------- ¶9. (SBU) There are no human rights considerations that should preclude the release of the defense equipment to the Iraqi Armed Forces. Action Request -------------- ¶10. (SBU) We request immediate Washington approval for the release of the ANV-20/20 NVD Infinity Focus System to the Government of Iraq. CROCKER