The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of Norway involving AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missiles and associated systems, with an estimated value of $370.9 million.
As part of the deal, Norway has requested to purchase:
• 300 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles
• 2 AIM-9X Block II special air training missiles (NATM)
• 24 AIM-9X Block II captive air training missiles (CATM)
• 20 AIM-9X Block II tactical guidance units
• 20 AIM-9X Block II CATM guidance units
The principal contractor for the proposed sale will be RTX Corporation, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. The AIM-9X is a state-of-the-art infrared-guided air-to-air missile known for its high off-boresight targeting and enhanced maneuverability.
Strategic Impact
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Enhancing NATO Interoperability: The sale will strengthen Norway’s ability to operate alongside U.S. and NATO forces, ensuring continued regional security and alliance cohesion.
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Force Modernization: The addition of the AIM-9X Block II will significantly upgrade the Norwegian Air Force’s existing air combat capabilities.
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Industrial Partnership: The agreement reflects ongoing defense-industrial collaboration between the United States and Norway.
The DSCA emphasized that the proposed sale will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The transaction aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by bolstering a key NATO ally’s defense readiness.
According to the Military Balance 2025 published by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the Royal Norwegian Air Force operates a fleet of 44 F-35A Lightning II aircraft organized into two squadrons. The AIM-9X Block II sale will significantly enhance the combat effectiveness of these 5th-generation multirole fighters, providing Norway with advanced short-range air-to-air capabilities critical for modern air defense operations.
