US Approves \$104 Million Sale of Sidewinder Missiles to NATO Allies

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

Washington — The US State Department has authorized a potential $103.9 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II/II+ missiles and related equipment to three NATO allies. The move is aimed at enhancing the alliance’s air combat readiness and strengthening defense cooperation.

The sale, coordinated through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), includes:

• Belgium: 8 missiles
• Italy: 24 missiles
• Romania: 64 missiles + 12 guidance units

In total, up to 96 AIM-9X missiles will be supplied, primarily for F-35 Lightning II fighter jets deployed across the three nations.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that the sale will “bolster NATO’s capacity to counter current and emerging threats while improving interoperability among allied forces.”

RTX Corporation (formerly Raytheon Technologies) has been selected as the prime contractor for the deal. The agreement awaits final approval by the US Congress before deliveries begin.

The AIM-9 Sidewinder, in service since the 1950s, has undergone multiple upgrades to remain at the forefront of aerial warfare. The Block II/II+ version introduces:

• Imaging infrared seeker for precise target tracking
• Thrust vector control for extreme maneuverability
• Lock-on-after-launch (LOAL) capability via datalink for beyond-visual-range engagements
• Improved fuze system and digital ignition safety device for enhanced operational safety

This upgrade makes the Sidewinder a multi-role missile, capable of air-to-air and air-to-surface strikes without modifications.

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