US approves possible FMS to Norway for up to 200 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Missiles 1305153

a
World Aviation Defense & Security News - Norway
 
 
US approves possible FMS to Norway for up to 200 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Missiles
 
The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Norway for AIM 9X Block II Sidewinder Missiles and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $345 million. The principal contractor will be Raytheon Missile Systems Company in Tucson, Arizona.
     

AIM-9X Block II adds a redesigned fuze and a digital Ignition Safety Device to the AIM-9X missile
     
The Government of Norway has requested a possible sale of up to 200 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Tactical Missiles, 2 AIM-9X Special Air Training Missiles (NATMs), 40 CATM-9X Block II Captive Air Training Missiles (CATMs), 10 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Guidance Units, and 20 AIM-9X Block II CATM Guidance Units, containers, support and test equipment, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, U.S. Government and contractor logistics and technical support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated cost is $345 million.

"Norway requires these capabilities for mutual defense, regional security, force modernization, and U.S. and NATO interoperability. This sale will enhance the Royal Norwegian Air Force’s ability to defend Norway against future threats and contribute to current and future NATO operation," said the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

The AIM-9X Block II adds a redesigned fuze and a digital Ignition Safety Device that enhances ground handling and in-flight safety. The Block II variant 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.