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Poland Set to Field Advanced AIM-120D3 Air-to-Air Missiles Approved by US Foreign Military Sale.
On April 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of Poland involving AIM-120D3 medium-range air-to-air missiles, with an estimated value of $1.33 billion. The authorization, transmitted to Congress by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), marks a new phase in the enhancement of Poland’s air defense capabilities. As a strategic NATO ally located on the eastern flank of the Alliance, Poland faces increasing aerial threats in its region.
While maintaining the aerodynamic configuration of previous variants, the D3 model incorporates major improvements in range, guidance, connectivity, and resistance to electronic countermeasures (Picture source: Raytheon)
According to the information released, Poland seeks to acquire 400 AIM-120D3 AMRAAM missiles, along with 16 associated guidance sections equipped with Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) or M-Code GPS encryption modules, and one instrumented AIM-120 test vehicle. The proposed deal also includes non-MDE (non-Major Defense Equipment) support components such as control sections, transport containers, test sets like the ADU-891, CMBRE (Common Munitions Built-in-Test Reprogramming Equipment), KGV-135A encryption devices, Computer Program Identification Numbers (CPINs), as well as spare parts, consumables, classified software, technical publications, logistical support services, studies, transportation, and assistance provided by the U.S. government and industry partners.
The AIM-120D3 represents the most advanced version of the AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) family, developed by RTX (formerly Raytheon). While maintaining the aerodynamic configuration of previous variants, the D3 model incorporates major improvements in range, guidance, connectivity, and resistance to electronic countermeasures. Featuring inertial navigation with a two-way data link, the missile retains its fire-and-forget capability while benefiting from enhanced in-flight adaptability via networked sensor updates. Its solid-fuel propulsion enables supersonic speeds close to Mach 4, and the range has been extended to approximately 160–180 km, enabling engagements well beyond visual range (BVR).
Designed to counter advanced aerial threats, the AIM-120D3 can be launched from a wide array of fourth- and fifth-generation fighter aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22, F-35, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Rafale. It is capable of intercepting highly maneuverable targets such as enemy fighters, bombers, and cruise missiles. Its 20 kg fragmentation warhead, combined with both proximity and impact fusing, is designed to maximize effectiveness. Additionally, the D3 variant is compatible with ground-based air defense systems like NASAMS, offering the possibility for Poland to integrate it into a layered air defense network aligned with NATO standards.
If concluded, this would be Poland’s first procurement of the AIM-120D3, a variant previously limited to a select group of close U.S. allies. With an average unit cost estimated at around $1 million, the projected $1.33 billion total includes not only the munitions but also ancillary equipment, support services, and classified elements typically associated with FMS agreements. The designated prime contractor is RTX Corporation, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. No offset agreement has been announced at this stage, although bilateral negotiations on that matter may occur. The implementation of this sale will not require the deployment of additional U.S. personnel to Poland and will not affect U.S. defense readiness.
The AIM-120D3 missiles will initially be deployed with Poland’s F-16C/D Block 52+ fighters and are also planned for integration with the future F-35A fleet, whose deliveries are expected to begin in 2026 (Picture source: Polish MoD)
Strategically, the sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by reinforcing the defense posture of a politically stable and economically capable NATO partner. The transaction is intended to improve Poland’s ability to counter current and future aerial threats, enhance protection for allied forces in transit or combat, and contribute to NATO’s broader operational capabilities. As Poland already fields previous AMRAAM variants, integrating the D3 into its command, launch, and maintenance systems is expected to proceed without difficulty.
For Poland, the acquisition is part of a broader modernization effort for its air force, driven by a security environment marked by the ongoing war in Ukraine and persistent hybrid threats in the region. The AIM-120D3 missiles will initially be deployed with Poland’s F-16C/D Block 52+ fighters and are also planned for integration with the future F-35A fleet, whose deliveries are expected to begin in 2026. The missile’s extended range, high maneuverability, and advanced targeting capabilities are intended to significantly strengthen Poland’s ability to operate in contested airspace, secure its national airspace, and contribute effectively to NATO’s deterrence posture. Future integration into NASAMS or similar ground-based systems remains a possibility, as Warsaw continues to expand its multi-layered air defense infrastructure.