Bahrain decided to buy the UK-manufactured BAE Systems Hawk training aircraft. The Gulf state’s ruler, Shaikh Hamed Bin Isa Al-Khalifa, stated that his country would start negotiations with BAE Systems to purchase Hawk for the Royal Bahraini Air Force (RBAF) air-training wing.
British Defense Procurement Minister Lord Bach said: "I am delighted that Bahrain has chosen to work with the UK on this important project and I look forward to the Royal Air Forces of our two countries continuing to work closely together.
In addition to the procurement of Hawk aircraft, it is envisaged that the initial package will also contain test and ground equipment, technical assistance and training. These and other items are now subject to confidential negotiations between Bahrain and BAE SYSTEMS.
The provision of Hawk and associated equipment will complete the program for a world class advanced pilot training academy primed by BAE SYSTEMS. A contract for basic and elementary training was signed between the Kingdom of Bahrain and BAE SYSTEMS in January 2002.
BAE SYSTEMS is a systems company, employing nearly 100,000 people with annual sales of around £13 billion. — (menareport.com)
© 2002 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
