WASHINGTON 

The US State Department approved the possible sale of HH-60W Helicopters and related equipment to Norway, the Pentagon said Friday.

The estimated cost is $2.6 billion, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement.

"The proposed sale will improve Norway’s capability to meet current and future threats by increasing its airborne combat and special operations capabilities. Norway will use these aircraft to defend other NATO members and its allies," it said.

The principal contractor will be Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in Stratford, Connecticut.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the possible sale on Friday.