Washington — The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale of three Black Hawk Helicopters to Mexico to strengthen the country's capability to fight organized crime and conduct counter-narcotics operations, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement on Tuesday.

"Mexico has been a strong partner in combating organized crime and drug trafficking organizations," the statement said. "The sale of these UH-60M helicopters to Mexico will significantly increase and strengthen its capability to provide in-country airlift support for its forces engaged in counter-drug operations."

The $110 million deal would include communications, radar and weaponry for the Black Hawks, as well as training and logistical services. Mexico requested the foreign military sale to modernize its armed forces to combat drug trafficking.