Netherlands requests AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder missiles

The government of the Netherlands is reportedly seeking to purchase AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder Block II all-up-round missiles from the US government at an estimated cost of $60 million. US Congress was notified of the Netherland request on 16 October.

If it goes ahead, the foreign military sale will include 28 AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder Block II all-up-round missiles and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support. The acquisition will be part of the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s (RNAF’s) effort to modernise its fighter aircraft to better support the Netherlands’ air defence needs.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has itemised the request as including the 28 AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder Block II all-up-round missiles, 20 CATM-9X-2 captive air training missiles, 2 AIM-9X-2 NATM special air training missiles, 2 CATM-9X-2 Block II missile guidance units, 2 AIM-9X-2 Block II tactical guidance units, 2 dummy air training missiles, containers, missile support and test equipment, provisioning, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, US government and contractor technical assistance and other related logistics support.

The prime contractor for the deal will be Raytheon Missile Systems if the sale goes ahead.

The AIM-9X is the latest member of the AIM-9 Sidewinder short-range missile family currently in use by more than 40 nations, in addition to the US Navy and US Air Force. The system is a launch-and-leave air combat missile that uses passive infrared (IR) energy for acquisition and tracking, which can be employed in near beyond visual range and within visual range arenas.