Raytheon was recently awarded a $736 million contract for the production of AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles intended for the U.S. Navy. These missiles, considered “one of the most advanced in the world,” can be installed on a wide range of aircraft, providing layered defense capabilities, including ground-based systems like the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).
Barbara Borgonovi, President of Naval Power at Raytheon, stated: “The AIM-9X remains the weapon of choice for short-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile defense, and customer demand worldwide is strong.”
She also commented on the relationship with the U.S. Navy, emphasizing: “We are investing, innovating, and partnering with our U.S. Navy customer to significantly increase our AIM-9X production capacity from next year’s orders.” The AIM-9X missile is part of a joint U.S. Navy and Air Force program, though it is used by more than 30 allied and partner countries. For example, in March of this year, the Czech Republic signed a letter of agreement to acquire these missiles for use in its future F-35A stealth fighters.
The AIM-9X Sidewinders, previously and recently ordered for the U.S. Armed Forces, correspond to one of the latest and most advanced versions of the short-range air-to-air missile. Specifically, the Block II version, which underwent testing and introduction between the late 2000s and early 2010s.
It’s worth noting that in mid-2023, the U.S. Department of Defense confirmed a new order from Raytheon for AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles to equip the U.S. Air Force and Navy. The current contract, focused on the enhanced Block II variant, includes a series of hardware upgrades to ensure superior long-term performance. The work related to this contract is expected to be carried out at various locations across the country until 2029.
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