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World Defense & Security News - Belgium
 
 
Belgian Air Force takes delivery of AIM-9X Block II air-to-air missiles
 
The Belgian Air Force recently took delivery of a batch of AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles, the service press office announced today, Jan. 31, 2017. This delivery is part of an overall military modernization program to better support its own air defense.
     
Belgian Air Force takes delivery of AIM 9X Block II air to air missiles 640 001One AIM-9X Block II missile recently delivered to the Belgian Air Force
(Credit: BAF)
     
The Belgian Government in Sept. 2013 requested a $68 million sale of 40 AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder Block II All-Up-Round Missiles, 36 CATM-9X-2 Captive Air Training Missiles, 2 CATM-9X-2 Block II Missile Guidance Units, and 10 AIM-9X-2 Block II Tactical Guidance Units, 4 Dummy Air Training Missiles, as well as spare parts and training.

Besides Belgium, the AIM-9X Block II missile has been ordered by the United States, Japan, Norway, the Republic of China, Australia, Denmark, Finland, Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Switzerland, and Turkey.

Produced by the US-based missile manufacturer Raytheon, the Block II variant adds a redesigned fuze and a digital ignition safety device that enhances ground handling and in-flight safety. It also features updated electronics that enable significant enhancements, including lock-on-after-launch capability using a new weapon datalink to support beyond visual range engagements.