The U.S. Department of state approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) of AIM-9X Sidewinder Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $103.9 million.
The NSPA, acting on behalf of Belgium, Italy and Romania, has requested up to ninety-six AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II or Block II+ tactical missiles, with Belgium seeking 8, Italy 24 and Romania 64. Romania has also requested twelve AIM-9X Block II or Block II+ tactical guidance units, while the package includes missile containers, training, logistics support services, and technical documentation.
According to the State Department, “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of NATO Allies that are a force for political stability and economic progress in the North Atlantic region.” The Department added, “The proposed sale will improve NATO’s capability to meet current and future threats by utilizing air-to-air missiles and guidance units for its F-35 fleets in support of NATO’s defense mission.”
Officials stated that the potential transfer would not alter the basic military balance in the region. NATO is expected to absorb the weapons without difficulty.
The principal contractor for the programme will be RTX Corporation, based in Arlington, Virginia. No offset agreement has been proposed, with any future arrangement to be determined through negotiations between NATO and the contractor.
Implementation of the sale will not require additional U.S. Government or contractor personnel to be assigned to NATO. However, U.S. engineering and technical services may be provided temporarily to support technical assistance.