What is critical for mitigating risks in foreign military sales?

Clear communication of expectations is critical for mitigating risks in foreign military sales because it establishes a mutual understanding between the involved parties about what is being sold, the terms of the sale, and the intended outcomes. When expectations are communicated effectively, it helps to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to disputes or dissatisfaction on either side.

Having clear communication helps to align the goals of both the U.S. military and the foreign military partner, which can streamline the process and ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding timelines, deliverables, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. This proactive approach can minimize the risks associated with misinterpretations or discrepancies that might arise during the sales process.

While assurance of funds availability, a thorough understanding of the foreign military's capabilities, and the development of an effective negotiation strategy are all important components of foreign military sales, they do not replace the necessity for clear communication. Without clear communication, funds may not be allocated effectively, capabilities may be overestimated or underestimated, and negotiations may falter. Thus, establishing a clear line of communication is fundamental to ensuring that risks are minimized effectively across all dimensions of the sales process.