Japan Set to Enhance Air Combat Capabilities with Acquisition of US AMRAAM Air-to-Air Missile Deal.

On January 2, 2025, The U.S. State Department authorized a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of Japan for a significant purchase of AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM). The proposed deal, valued at an estimated $3.64 billion, includes up to 1,200 missiles, along with related guidance sections and support equipment. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has delivered the required certification to notify Congress of the potential sale, marking a crucial step in strengthening U.S.-Japan defense relations.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

U.S. Airmen from the 379th Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron's munitions flight load an AIM-120D Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile onto an F-15E Strike Eagle during an integrated combat turn training exercise at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

The package includes two advanced variants of the AMRAAM AIM-120 air-to-air missile: the AIM-120D-3 and the AIM-120C-8, both of which are designed to enhance Japan's air combat capabilities. These missiles are integral to Japan’s efforts to modernize its defense infrastructure and to ensure its readiness in an increasingly volatile Indo-Pacific region. The AIM-120D-3, in particular, features enhanced guidance systems, offering superior precision and extended range, while the AIM-120C-8 will further augment Japan's missile defense capacity with its proven capabilities.

The sale also covers up to 20 AIM-120D-3 guidance sections, which are essential for the missile's advanced functionality. These guidance sections incorporate cutting-edge positioning technologies, such as Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) or M-Code, which improve missile accuracy and ensure secure, reliable performance in combat scenarios. Additionally, the U.S. will supply up to 4 AIM-120C-8 guidance sections, further enhancing the missile systems' capabilities for the Japanese forces.

In addition to the missiles and guidance sections, the sale includes a range of critical support and training equipment. This includes AMRAAM propulsion sections, warheads, missile containers, and Captive Air Training Missiles (CATM), which will help train Japanese personnel in the use of advanced systems. Also included are essential test and maintenance tools, such as Common Munitions Built-in Test (BIT) Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE) and ADU-891 Adaptor Group Test Sets, which will allow Japan to ensure the operational readiness of the AMRAAM missiles and conduct necessary reprogramming and maintenance.

The sale also involves extensive logistical and engineering support, ensuring that these advanced systems are integrated into Japan’s military infrastructure. The U.S. will provide spare parts, repair services, technical documentation, classified software delivery, transportation assistance, and warranty services to support the full lifecycle of the missiles. This robust support package underscores the U.S. commitment to assisting Japan in maintaining its air superiority in a challenging security environment.

Moreover, the package includes provisions for technical training and knowledge transfer, ensuring that Japan's defense personnel can operate, maintain, and deploy the AMRAAM missiles effectively. This training will be critical for successfully integrating the missiles into Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and their ongoing operational efficiency.

The approval of this sale is strategically significant, particularly in the context of the growing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Japan has been increasing its defense spending and modernization efforts to counter rising regional threats, especially from China, which has significantly expanded its military capabilities in recent years. The AIM-120D-3 and AIM-120C-8 missiles will enhance Japan’s ability to conduct air-to-air combat, with greater range and precision, and provide a powerful tool for deterrence.

Including advanced guidance systems and reprogramming tools further demonstrates Japan’s intent to remain agile and adaptable in the face of evolving threats. These technological upgrades will ensure that the JASDF remains capable of effectively countering future air threats, both conventional and emerging, and securing Japan’s airspace.

The U.S.-Japan defense relationship has long been a cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and this sale reaffirms that commitment. As Japan continues to strengthen its defense posture, the addition of the AMRAAM missiles will play a key role in enhancing both the operational capability and deterrence capacity of the JASDF.

This potential $3.64 billion missile sale is a significant development for Japan’s defense modernization efforts, underscoring the importance of air superiority in the region. The deal not only enhances Japan’s military capabilities but also deepens its strategic partnership with the United States, ensuring a robust and effective deterrence against future regional threats. As the sale proceeds through the legislative process, it is expected to have far-reaching implications for the defense capabilities of both nations, as well as for the security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.