US Approves Potential Military Sale of AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Missiles to Saudi Arabia.

On October 11, 2024, the U.S. State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia involving AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles and associated support systems, with an estimated value of $251.8 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) formally notified Congress of the proposed sale today, marking a significant step in strengthening the defense partnership between the two nations.
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An AIM-9X missile is externally attached to a 33rd Fighter Wing F-35A Lightning II, during Exercise Combat Archer at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

Saudi Arabia has requested to purchase 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Tactical Missiles, alongside a comprehensive package that includes missile containers, support equipment, spare parts, and missile software. The package also provides training and technical assistance from both U.S. Government personnel and contractors to ensure the successful integration of the missiles into Saudi Arabia’s armed forces. Additionally, the deal covers logistics and other elements required for long-term program support.

The AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder is an advanced infrared-guided, air-to-air missile with a range of approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) and is equipped with a high-explosive, blast-fragmentation warhead. Known for its agility and precision, it features enhanced all-weather, day-or-night operational capabilities, making it a key asset in modern air combat scenarios. Equipped with an upgraded guidance system, lock-on after-launch capability, and improved thrust-vectoring control, the AIM-9X Block II offers greater accuracy and flexibility in engaging fast-moving aerial targets, making it highly effective in both close-range dogfights and beyond-visual-range engagements.

This missile is the latest in the AIM-9 Sidewinder series, which has been a cornerstone of U.S. and allied air defense systems for decades. Its improvements over previous versions, including the ability to engage threats from all directions and increased resistance to countermeasures, make it a formidable addition to any air force. The high-explosive warhead is designed to destroy a wide range of aerial targets upon impact effectively, and its proven reliability ensures its role in maintaining air superiority for allied nations across various combat scenarios.

According to the DSCA, this sale is expected to bolster Saudi Arabia’s air defense capabilities, enabling the kingdom to address both current and emerging threats in the Middle East. The AIM-9X Block II, known for its advanced infrared homing capabilities and all-weather performance, will significantly enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to conduct self-defense operations and contribute to regional security missions.

The DSCA (Defense Security Cooperation Agency) emphasized that Saudi Arabia will have no difficulty absorbing the advanced missile systems into its military, given the country’s existing defense infrastructure and experience with U.S.-made weaponry.

RTX Corporation, based in Arlington, Virginia, has been named the principal contractor for the sale. The company, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, is a leading defense contractor and the manufacturer of the AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missile system. No offset agreements are expected to be involved in this sale, streamlining the transaction.

This proposed sale comes at a time of heightened security concerns in the Middle East, as Saudi Arabia seeks to modernize its defense forces and strengthen its air capabilities. The acquisition of the AIM-9X Block II missiles is part of a broader strategy to maintain regional stability and ensure the kingdom’s preparedness to counter both conventional and asymmetrical threats.

The AIM-9X Block II missiles are equipped with state-of-the-art guidance and control systems, providing enhanced agility and accuracy in air combat scenarios. Their inclusion in Saudi Arabia’s arsenal will improve its ability to defend its airspace and respond to potential threats from adversarial forces.

This announcement marks another chapter in the U.S.-Saudi defense relationship, underscoring both nations' commitment to maintaining a robust defense posture in the face of evolving threats.