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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
According to the State Department, \u201cThis 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.\u201d The Department added, \u201cThe proposed sale will improve NATO\u2019s 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\u2019s defense mission.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n