Canada to purchase Sidewinder AIM-9X Block II from US
The US State Department on 15 June approved a possible FMS to Canada of 50 Sidewinder AIM-9X Block II tactical missiles and related equipment for $862.3 million.
The deal also includes 50 AIM-9X Block II Captive Air Training Missiles, 10 Special Air Training Missiles, 10 Tactical Guidance Units, 10 CATM Guidance Missiles, 38 APG-79(V)4 AESA radar units and 20 Joint Standoff Weapons (JSOW).
The prime contractors include Boeing, Collins Aerospace, General Dynamics Mission System and Raytheon.
The sale will provide Canada with 2-squadron bridge of enhanced F/A-18A aircraft which will meet NORAD and NATO commitments whilst it gradually introduces new advanced aircraft through its Future Fighter Capability Programme between 2025 and 2035.
No offset arrangements have been confirmed by either party but may be negotiated between the purchaser and the contractor at a later date.
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