By Beyza Binnur Donmez
ANKARA (AA) - The U.S. State Department approved a possible sale of up to 12 F-35B fighter jets to Singapore for an estimated $2.75 billion.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement released on Thursday that it delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the potential sale.
Singapore made the request last year to purchase F-35 jets as it looks to augment its operational aircraft inventory, replacing its aging F-16 fleet.
Emphasizing the importance of Singapore as a "strategic friend," major security cooperation partner and "important" force for political stability and economic progress in the Asia Pacific region, the DSCA said: "This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States."
"The proposed sale of this aircraft and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region," the DSCA noted.
Sale procedures will officially begin once Congress gives its approval.