US Approves $325 Million Support Package to Sustain Kuwait’s Abrams Tank Fleet

The United States has officially approved a potential $325 million military sale to Kuwait, aimed at sustaining and supporting its fleet of M1A2 Abrams main battle tanks. This decision, cleared by the U.S. State Department, highlights ongoing defense cooperation between the two nations and reflects Kuwait’s continuing investment in military readiness and modernization.

This latest package includes critical logistics and sustainment support for both the legacy M1A2 tanks and the newer M1A2K variant. The deal encompasses a wide range of services and equipment such as spare parts, repair components, replacement materials, tools, and program support that will help keep Kuwait’s armored capabilities fully operational and combat-ready.

Currently, Kuwait operates approximately 218 Abrams tanks, a key pillar of its ground forces. The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency noted that this sale will enhance Kuwait’s ability to counter present and future security threats by ensuring its armored units remain at high readiness levels. The support will also aid in Kuwait’s broader goals to modernize its military and raise its professional standards.

General Dynamics Land Systems, the original manufacturer of the Abrams tank, will act as the principal contractor for the sustainment effort. Importantly, there is no offset agreement included in this sale, indicating a straightforward support and logistics arrangement.

This is not the first Abrams-related deal between the U.S. and Kuwait. In December 2023, the U.S. approved a $300 million sale to support general vehicle maintenance and sustainment across Kuwait’s military fleet. Additionally, in September 2022, a separate $250 million sale was approved to supply M1A2K tank ammunition.

Kuwait has been steadily increasing its defense investments, with military spending reaching a record $6.1 billion in 2024. This upward trend is expected to continue, with an annual growth rate of more than 3 percent forecasted from 2025 to 2029. The latest Abrams sustainment deal fits squarely into this broader defense modernization strategy, reinforcing Kuwait’s long-standing defense partnership with the United States and ensuring its armored forces remain both modern and mission-ready.