US approves AMRAAM weapons for Japan
The US State Department has cleared Japan to buy AIM-120C-7/8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) in an deal estimated at $293 million.
Tokyo has requested to buy 150 of the weapons, three AMRAAM guidance sections, missile containers, control sections and other support equipment.
The weapon can be fitted on Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-35, F-15J and F-2 fighter jets.
'The proposed sale will improve Japan’s capability to meet current and future threats by defending the Japanese homeland and U.S. personnel stationed there,' said a US State Department notice. 'Japan already has AMRAAMs in its inventory and will have no difficulty absorbing these missiles into its armed forces.'
Raytheon is listed as the principal contractor on the prospective deal.
More from Air Warfare
-
Greece and Israel cosy up over Rafael’s Spyder air defence system
Ongoing discussions between Greece and Israeli arms manufacturer Rafael to acquire Spyder air defence systems underscored the resilience of international business ties despite geopolitical tensions.
-
General Atomics Mojave performs live fire tests amid push for FARA replacement
During the test the Mojave showcased its capability to act as a sensor, shooter and sustainer, potentially strengthening General Atomics’ pitch towards a FARA replacement.
-
India could buy nearly 100 new Tejas fighters in biggest ever domestic order
This procurement would form part of the Indian Air Force’s plan to retire its fleet of MiG-21 fighters and replace them with the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk1As by 2025.