Netherlands Air Force to get AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles.

The U.S. Defense Coopêration Agency announced on May 26 that the State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of the Netherlands of AIM-9X Block II Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $117 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale.

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Raytheon AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missile (Picture source: Aerocontact)

The Government of the Netherlands has requested to buy 72 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missiles; and 43 AIM-9X Block II+ Tactical Missiles that will be added to a previously implemented case. The original FMS case, valued at $16.8 million, included 23 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missiles. The Netherlands has also requested a new FMS case for 22 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missiles; 43 AIM-9X Block II+ Tactical Missiles; and 1 AIM-9X Block II+ Tactical Guidance Unit.

Therefore, this notification is for a total of 95 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missiles; 43 AIM-9X Block II+ Tactical Missiles; and 1 AIM-9X Block II+ Tactical Guidance Unit. Also included are containers; classified and unclassified software; U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The total estimated cost is $117 million.

The principal contractor will be Raytheon Missiles and Defense, Tucson, AZ. Implementation of this sale will not require the assignment of any U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the Netherlands.

Raytheon AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missile (Picture source: Raytheon)