Germany is seeking upgrades for its fleet of Lockheed Martin P-3C Orion aircraft through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in its required notification to Congress, said the State Department has given its approval for the deal worth an estimated $250 million.

"This proposed sale will update hardware and software to ensure the P-3 aircraft maintain operational capability," DSCA said. "The upgrades will enhance Germany's ability to participate in future coalition operations and will promote continued interoperability."

The proposed deal will cover the procurement, integration and installation of hardware and software to upgrade the mission computer and acoustic systems and non-integrated simulator equipment on eight of the patrol and surveillance aircraft.

Design, development, integration, testing and installation of a ground-based mission support system, validation and acceptance, spare and repair parts, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment are also included.

Contractors would be Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics.