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

UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 02 BAGHDAD 003680 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 - AN/AVS-9 NVGS ¶1. (U) This is an action request. Please see para 10. ¶2. (SBU) SUMMARY: The Country Team requests the immediate release of AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles (NVGs) 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 October 2007. The USG will fund this estimated $1.5M acquisition through an ISFF Funded Foreign Military Sales case. END SUMMARY. Description of Technology for Release -------------- ¶3. (SBU) AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles and provide high quality binocular image clarity essential for safe nighttime operations. They allow the wearer to select and clearly identify the enemy and reduce 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 AN-AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles 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 NVG that improves night vision capability will also contribute 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 AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles 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 AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles 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 -------------- ¶8. (SBU) This purchase will be financed by the USG using Iraqi Security Forces Funds. The cost is estimated at $1.5M. There is no significant economic impact anticipated to be BAGHDAD 00003680 002 OF 002 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 AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggles to the Government of Iraq. CROCKER