FMS To Thailand : M-60A3 Tanks

11 Juni 1997

The Government of Thailand has requested the purchase of 107 excess M60A3 tanks with 105mm guns and Tank Thermal Sight (TTS) capability, overhaul and upgrade of the excess M60A3 tanks with TTS in the Continental United States, 107 .50 caliber and 7.62mm machine guns, engines with containers, radios, support equipment, publications, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government Quality Assurance Teams, spare and repair parts and other related program elements to ensure long-term weapon system supportability. The estimated cost is $100 million.

This sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country which has been and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in Southeast Asia.
M-60A3 of the Royal Thai Army (photo : Skyscrapercity)

In addition to the 253 tanks previously procured from the U.S. Government (125 M60A3, 53 M60A1, and 75 M48A5), these M60A3 tanks, which will come from the U.S. Army excess inventory, will enhance Thailand's force modernization efforts and substantially improve the capability of its ground forces. Thailand will have no difficulty absorbing these tanks into its armed forces.

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

There are no offset agreements proposed to be entered into in connection with this potential sale.

Several Quality Assurance Teams will be required in Thailand for short periods during the incremental delivery of the tanks.

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

Sumber : Defense Link