The latest variant is evidently the M109A7 which has several improvements over the A6 model. Just curious why Saudi, with it’s deep pockets, wouldn’t want the latest and greatest instead of the older version?
http://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/mas/saudi_arabia_16-48.pdf
The USA rarely sells the latest technology to anyone but NATO counties.
They get what is called “monkey modles” and second or third dibs on replacement parts.
There is a reason for that.
But in exchange we get state sponsored wahhabi.
What a deal for us.
I think the best explanation I can think of is Saudi already operates M109A3 and M109A5s. If I remember correctly the M109A7 is basically an M109A6 on a new chassis which gives the M109a7 more long term growth potential. The M109A6 however uses the same chassis as older M109s and perhaps the Saudis are going to upgrade their older M109s as well to the M109A6 standard and deploy a pure fleet of M109A6s.
The technology transfer is a non issue considering especially considering Saudi Arabia fielding of the advanced F-15SA fighters which are extremely capable and arguably more advanced than any fighter fielded by the rest of NATO outside of the U.S.
Apparently the Aussies also buy their artillery ammo from us:
http://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/mas/australia_17-72_0.pdf