[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 32 (Thursday, February 17, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Pages S781-S783]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION
Mr. MENENDEZ. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export
Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of
certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such
notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale
may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the
notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the
Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant
information is available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to
have printed in the Record the notifications which have been received.
If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such annex is
available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations
Committee, room SD-423.
There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in
the Record, as follows:
Defense Security
Cooperation Agency,
Arlington, VA, February 17, 2022.
Hon. Robert Menendez,
Chairman, Committee on Foreign Relations,
U.S. Senate, Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: Pursuant to the reporting requirements
of Section 36(b)(l) of the Arms Export Control Act, as
amended, we are forwarding herewith Transmittal No. 22-20,
concerning the Army's proposed Letter(s) of Offer and
Acceptance to the Government of Poland for defense articles
and services estimated to cost $6 billion. After this letter
is delivered to your office, we plan to issue a news release
to notify the public of this proposed sale.
Sincerely,
James A. Hursch,
Director.
Enclosures.
transmittal no. 22-20
Notice of Proposed Issuance of Letter of Offer Pursuant to
Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act, as
amended
(i) Prospective Purchaser: Government of Poland.
(ii) Total Estimated Value:
Major Defense Equipment* $4.4 billion.
Other $1.6 billion.
Total $6.0 billion.
Funding Source: National Funds.
(iii) Description and Quantity or Quantities of Articles or
Services under Consideration for Purchase:
Major Defense Equipment (MDE):
Two hundred fifty (250) M1A2SEPv3 Abrams Main Battle Tanks.
Two hundred fifty (250) AN/VLQ-12 CREW Duke Counter-IED
Systems.
Twenty-six (26) M88A2 HERCULES Combat Recovery Vehicles.
Seventeen (17) M1110 Joint Assault Bridges.
Two hundred seventy-six (276) M2 .50 Caliber Machine Guns.
Five hundred (500) M240C 7.62mm Machine Guns.
Fifteen (15) AGT1500 Gas Turbine Engines.
Nine thousand one hundred sixty-eight (9,168) 120mm M865
Target Practice, Cone Stabilized, Discarding Sabot-Tracer
(TPCSDS-T) Cartridges.
Four thousand five hundred ninety-two (4,592) 120mm M1002
Target Practice Multipurpose Tracer (TPMP-T) Projectiles.
Thirteen thousand nine hundred twenty (13,920) 120mm M830A1
High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) TP-T Cartridges.
Six thousand nine hundred sixty (6,960) 120mm XM1147 High
Explosive Multipurpose Tracers.
Non-MDE: Also included are forward repair systems; trailer
mounted generators; Common Remote Operated Weapons Station
Low Profile (CROWS-LP); communications equipment; GPS
receivers; ammunition; spare and repair parts; Special Tools
and Test Equipment (STTE); technical manuals and
publications; maintenance trainers; gunnery training systems;
tank driver's trainers; new equipment training; U.S.
Government and contractor technical, engineering, and
logistics personnel services; and other related elements of
logistics and program support.
(iv) Military Department: Army (PL-B-UDT).
(v) Prior Related Cases, if any: None.
(vi) Sales Commission, Fee, etc., Paid, Offered, or Agreed
to be Paid: None.
(vii) Sensitivity of Technology Contained in the Defense
Article or Defense Services Proposed to be Sold: See Attached
Annex.
(viii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: February 17,
2022.
* As defined in Section 47(6) of the Arms Export Control
Act.
POLICY JUSTIFICATION
Poland--M1A2 SEPv3 Main Battle Tank
The Government of Poland has requested to buy two hundred
fifty (250) M1A2SEPv3 Abrams Main Battle tanks; two hundred
fifty (250) AN/VLQ-12 CREW Duke counter-IED systems; twenty-
six (26) M88A2 HERCULES Combat Recovery vehicles; seventeen
(17) M1110 joint assault bridges; two hundred seventy-six
(276) M2 .50 caliber machine guns; five hundred (500) M240C
7.62mm machine guns; fifteen (15) AGT1500 gas turbine
engines; nine thousand one hundred sixty-eight (9,168) 120mm
M865 Target Practice, Cone Stabilized, Discarding Sabot--
Tracer (TPCSDS-T) cartridges; four thousand five hundred
ninety-two (4,592) 120mm M1002 Target Practice Multipurpose
Tracer (TPMP-T) projectiles; thirteen thousand nine hundred
twenty (13,920) 120mm M830A1 High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT)
TP-T cartridges; and six thousand nine hundred sixty (6,960)
120mm XM1147 High Explosive multipurpose tracers. Also
included are forward repair systems; trailer mounted
generators; Common Remote Operated Weapons Station Low
Profile (CROWS-LP); communications equipment; GPS receivers;
ammunition; spare and repair parts; Special Tools and Test
Equipment (STTE); technical manuals and publications;
maintenance trainers; gunnery training systems; tank driver's
trainers; new equipment training; U.S. Government and
contractor technical, engineering, and logistics personnel
services; and other related elements of logistics and program
support. The total estimated program cost is $6.0 billion.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and
national security of the United States by helping to improve
the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political
stability and economic progress in Europe.
The proposed sale will improve Poland's capability to meet
current and future threats by providing a credible force that
is capable of deterring adversaries and participating in NATO
operations. Poland will have no difficulty absorbing this
equipment into its armed forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not
alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractors will be General Dynamics Land
Systems, Sterling Heights, MI; BAE Systems, York, PA;
Leonardo DRS, Arlington, VA; Honeywell Aerospace, Phoenix,
AZ; Raytheon Company, McKinney, TX; and Lockheed Martin,
Orlando, FL. There are no known offset agreements proposed in
connection with this proposed sale.
Implementation of this proposed sale will require
approximately (22) U.S. Government and (52) U.S. contractor
representatives to travel to Poland for a duration of up to
five years to support equipment fielding and training.
[[Page S782]]
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness
as a result of this proposed sale.
Transmittal No. 22-20
Notice of Proposed Issuance of Letter of Offer Pursuant to
Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act
Annex Item No. vii
(vii) Sensitivity of Technology:
1. M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams Tank: The M1A2 Abrams is a third-
generation American main battle tank, produced by General
Dynamics Land Systems and named for General Creighton Abrams.
The M1A2 SEPv3 (System Enhancement Package version 3)
features include a multi-fuel turbine engine, composite
armor, an advanced computer fire control system, separate
ammunition storage in a blow-out compartment, and 120mm main
gun. Extensive improvements have been integrated into the
latest M1A2 SEPv3 configuration. These improvements include
improved digital systems, increased electrical power margin
to support demands of future technologies, line replaceable
modules (LRM) to reduce operational support costs, ammunition
data link to support new tank main gun rounds, and an
auxiliary power unit (APU). M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tank components
considered to contain sensitive technology in the proposed
sale are as follows:
a. Thermal Imaging System (TIS) and Commander's Independent
Thermal Viewer (CITV):
(1) The TIS and CITV constitutes a target acquisition
system which, when operated with other tank systems gives the
tank crew a substantial advantage over the potential threat.
(2) The TIS provides the Abrams M1A2 crew with the ability
to effectively aim and fire the tank main armament system
under a broad range of adverse battlefield conditions. The
TIS can be operated and viewed by the tank gunner or tank
commander, and is the main sighting system for the tanks'
main gun (cannon). The CITV provides the same target
acquisition system as the TIS, but provides the tank
commander a separate system that can be controlled and
operated independent of the TIS.
b. Armor: Major components of the armor are fabricated and
assembled into serialized removable subassemblies, and
installed in sealed modules.
c. 120mm Main Gun (Cannon) & M256 Gun Barrel: The Abrams
120mm main gun system is composed of a 120 millimeter (mm)
smoothbore gun (cannon) also referred to as the M256 gun
barrel, manufactured at Watervliet Arsenal; armor-piercing,
fin stabilized, discarded sabot (APFSDS) and other warheads;
and combustible cartridge case ammunition.
d. AGT-1500 Gas Turbine Propulsion System: The use of AGT-
1500 gas turbine propulsion system in the M1A2 is a unique
application of armored vehicle power pack technology. The
hardware is composed of the AGT-1500 engine and transmission
and is not classified. Manufacturing processes associated
with the production of turbine blades, recuperator, bearings
and shafts, and hydrostatic pump and motor are proprietary
and therefore commercially competition sensitive.
e. Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station--Low Profile
(CROWS-LP): The CROWS-LP (M153A2E1) is a commander's weapon
station. It allows for operation of weapons--M2HB, M2A1,
M240B and M240 machine guns. The CROWS-LP is an updated
version of the M153A2 CROWS. The CROWS-LP M153A2E1 has
improved performance over the M153A2.
f. Ammunition Data Link (ADL): The Ammunition Data Link
(ADL) is a system consisting of hardware, electronics,
software and an upgraded fire control system. The ADL is
required to effectively fire the latest generation of
``smart'' 120mm main gun ammunition. The ADL offers the
capability to supply data to the main gun ammunition to
increase the capability and effectiveness of the smart round.
The Advanced Multipurpose (AMP) smart round requires the ADL
to function, and is a future enhancement for use with the
M1A2 Abrams.
g. Driver Vision Enhancer--Abrams (DVE-A) AN/VAS-5 and Rear
View Sensor System (RVSS):
(1) The AN/VAS-5 Driver Vision Enhancer--Abrams (DVE-A) and
Rear View Sensor System (RVSS) are thermal imaging systems
developed for use while driving combat vehicles and tactical
wheeled vehicles. The DVE-A provides night vision capability
for the Abrams tank driver. RVSS provides a rear view camera
for the Abrams tank.
(2) DVE-A and RVSS allow for tactical vehicle movement in
support of operational missions in all environmental
conditions (day/night and all weather) and provides enhanced
driving capability during limited visibility conditions
(darkness, smoke, dust, fog, etc.).
h. Global Positioning System (GPS) AN/PSN-13 Defense
Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR): Global Positioning System (GPS)
capability is currently provided to Abrams tanks using the
DAGR. The DAGR is a handheld GPS receiver which utilizes
Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) security.
It is used for the Abrams tank, the M88A2 HERCULES Recovery
Vehicle and the Joint Assault Bridge.
i. Handheld Communication Radio AN/PRC-158: The AN/PRC-158
is a multiband handheld radio. It is a portable, compact,
tactical software-defined combat-net radio manufactured by
L3/Harris Corporation. It is also referred to as the AN/PRC-
158 Multi-Channel Manpack Radio System. The AN/PRC-158 has
been fielded since 2005 by the U.S. Army, the USMC, and
various select countries. It is used for the Abrams tank, the
M88A2 HERCULES Recovery Vehicle and the Joint Assault Bridge.
j. Battle Management System (BMS): The BMS for the Poland
SEPv3 tank will consist of a Data Distribution Unit--
Expandable (DDUx), a transceiver, and commercial software
called Sitaware. It equips soldiers with secure data
encryption and advanced logistics. It includes an intuitive
interface with features like touch-to-zoom maps and drag-and-
drop icons. It is used for the Abrams tank, the M88A2
HERCULES Recovery Vehicle and the Joint Assault Bridge.
k. Counter Remote Controlled Improvised Explosive Device
(RCIED) Electronic Warfare (CREW) Duke AN/VLQ-12: The AN/VLQ-
12 CREW Duke system is a vehicle-mounted, lightweight system
that neutralizes RCIED threats and gives troops a tactical
advantage across the full spectrum of operations. It is the
U.S. Army's state-of-the-art security enhancement to the U.S.
Army Abrams tank. The AN/VLQ-12 CREW Duke system uses an
advanced software-defined architecture that supports rapid
reconfiguration to adapt to the constantly evolving threat
environment.
2. M88A2 HERCULES Recovery Vehicle: The primary role of the
M88A2 Heavy Equipment Recovery Combat Utility Lifting
Extraction System (HERCULES) Combat Recovery Vehicle is
recovery of the Abrams M1 Main Battle Tank. The 70-ton M88A2
Recovery Combat Vehicle is standard equipment to de-process,
recover, and sustain the Abrams M1 Tank. The vehicle's role
is to extricate combat vehicles that have become bogged down
or entangled; and to repair or replace damaged parts in
fighting vehicles while under fire. The M88A2 main winch is
capable of 70-ton single line recovery; and a 140-ton 2:1
recovery when used with a 140-ton pulley. The A-frame boom of
the M88A2 can lift 35 tons when used in conjunction with the
spade down. The spade can be used for light earth moving and
to anchor the vehicle when using the main winch. The M88A2
employs an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) to provide auxiliary
electrical and hydraulic power when the main engine is not in
operation; the APU can also be used to slave start other
vehicles. The M88A2 recovery vehicle components considered to
contain sensitive technology in the proposed case are as
follows:
a. AVDS-1790-8CR Engine Propulsion System: The AVDS-1790-
8CR is a unique modification to the standard piston engine
family in the M60 series and the base M88Al.
b. Driver's Vision Enhancer (DVE-CV M88): Driver's Vision
Enhancer (DVE-CV M88) is a thermal imaging system developed
for use while driving Combat Vehicles (CVs) and Tactical
Wheeled Vehicles (TWVs). It allows for tactical vehicle
movement in support of operational missions in all
environmental conditions (day/night and all weather) and
provides enhanced driving capability during limited
visibility conditions (darkness, smoke, dust, fog, etc). The
DVE provides night vision targeting capabilities for armored
vehicles and long-range night vision reconnaissance
capability to the warfighter. The DVE-CV for M88 vehicle is a
platform-mounted night vision device (not man-portable),
requires external power supply and is integrated into the
vehicle.
3. M1110 Joint Assault Bridge: The M1110 Joint Assault
Bridge (JAB) is a fully tracked armor engineer vehicle
specifically designed to replace the M48/M60 AVLB, M104
Wolverine HAB and provide assault bridging capabilities to
armored forces. The JAB System consists of an M1A1 Abrams
chassis (with A2 heavy suspension) and a hydraulic bridge
launch mechanism that will launch and retrieve the Heavy
Assault Scissor Bridge MLC-115 Normal and MLC-124 Caution.
The JAB contains:
a. Armor: Major components of the armor are fabricated and
assembled into serialized removable subassemblies, and
installed in sealed modules.
b. AGT-1500 Gas Turbine Propulsion System: The use of AGT-
1500 gas turbine propulsion system in the JAB is a unique
application of armored vehicle power pack technology. The
hardware is composed of the AGT-1500 engine and transmission.
c. Driver Vision Enhancer--JAB (DVE) and Rear View Sensor
System (RVSS): The Driver Vision Enhancer (DVE) used on the
JAB is the DVE-10 and Rear View Sensor System (RVSS) both are
thermal imaging systems developed for use while driving
combat vehicles and tactical wheeled vehicles. The DVE
provides night vision capability for the JAB driver. The RVSS
provides a rear view camera for the JAB. DVE and RVSS allow
for tactical vehicle movement in support of operational
missions in all environmental conditions (day/night and all
weather) and provides enhanced driving capability during
limited visibility conditions (darkness, smoke, dust, fog,
etc.).
4. M830A1 120mm High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) TP-T
Cartridges is a chemical energy, multi-purpose projectile
with an anti-personnel capability. The round consists of a
fin stabilized steel body which is loaded with Composition A3
Type II explosive. The fins are canted and impart spin to the
projectile. A copper shaped charge liner and wave shaper are
contained within the warhead.
5. The highest level of classification of defense articles,
components, and services included in this potential sale is
SECRET.
6. If a technologically advanced adversary were to obtain
knowledge of the specific
[[Page S783]]
hardware and software elements, the information could be used
to develop countermeasures that might reduce weapon system
effectiveness or be used in the development of a system with
similar or advanced capabilities.
7. A determination has been made that Poland will provide
substantially the same degree of protection for the sensitive
technology being released as the U.S. Government. This sale
is necessary in furtherance of the U.S. foreign policy and
national security objectives outlined in the Policy
Justification.
8. All defense articles and services listed in this
transmittal have been authorized for release and export to
the Government of Poland.
____________________