The U.S. Department of State on Tuesday approved a proposed $124 million military sale to Qatar for Mark V fast patrol boats, and associated gun systems and ammunition. File Photo by PH1(SW) Arlo Abrahamson/U.S. Navy | License Photo

WASHINGTON, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of State approved the proposed $124 million sale of Mark V fast patrol boats, weapons, ammunition and training to Qatar.

Qatar's government requested Mark V fast patrol boats, eight .50-caliber machine guns, MLG 27mm naval gun systems, as well as ammunition. Forward-looking infrared systems, support equipment, personnel training and other services were also requested.


The Defense Cooperation Security Agency, which oversees the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, sent required notification to Congress on Friday, according to a statement.

The principal contractor for the sale will be United States Marine Incorporated in Mississippi.

"Implementation of this proposed sale will require multiple trips by U.S. government and contractor representatives to participate in program and technical reviews, system integration, as well as training and maintenance support in country for a period of five years," the agency said.

The Mark V is a medium-range transport and patrol boat used by U.S. Special Operations Forces for insertion and extraction of SEAL combat swimmers as well as coastal patrol.