The Department of Defense announced today the possible sale to the Government of Turkey of three FFG-7 PERRY class frigates and eight currently leased FF 1052 KNOX class frigates for service with the Turkish Navy. Also included are: 20,000 rounds of 20mm cartridges, other ammunition items, "cold ship" transfer reactivations, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics personnel support services, publications, repair and calibration services for shipboard equipment, publications and technical data/drawings, training and training equipment, support equipment, spare and repair parts and other elements of logistics necessary to prepare the frigates for transfer to Turkey in a "safe to steam" condition with all shipboard and weapon systems operational. The estimated cost is $205 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the military capabilities of Turkey, while enhancing weapon system standardization and interoperability.

Turkey already has three U.S. Navy PERRY class frigates in its Navy fleet. Turkey needs these frigates to continue its naval modernization program and enhance its anti-submarine warfare capability. The frigates will be provided in accordance with, and subject to the limitation on use and transfer provided under the Arms Export Control Act, as embodied in the terms of sale. This sale will not adversely affect either the military balance in the region or U.S. efforts to encourage a negotiated settlement of the Cyprus question.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region.

The PERRY vessels will be transferred on a "cold ship" basis because the decommissioning has occurred prior to approval of the enacting legislation. The primary efforts for transfer will be completed through the Naval Sea Systems Command by a contract crew. There are no prime contractors for provision of the weapon systems applicable to these platforms. There are no offset agreements proposed to be entered into in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of contractor representatives for the purpose of providing engineering technical support to Turkey.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Nov1998/m11181998_m182-98.html