Mubasher: The US state department has approved possibly providing Kuwait with design, procurement, and construction services for the latter’s Al Mubarak Airbase, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced.

The deal – which will “ensure the continued readiness of the Kuwait Air Force” – is worth $319 million, and will be handled by the US Army Corps of Engineers, according to the DSCA.

“The proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by supporting the infrastructure needs of a friendly country which has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East,” a statement read.

However, the DSAC also clarified that the “notice of a potential sale does not mean the sale has been concluded”.

The US Congress had been notified of the sale on 6 April, the statement clarified.