The US has approved the potential $570-million sale of RTX’s Advanced Medium Range Air – to – Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to the Netherlands.

Amsterdam requested up to 232 AIM – 120C – 8 AMRAAMs and up to eight guidance sections, helping ensure a steady stockpile of modern, capable air – to – air munitions.

It also includes AMRAAM control section spares, captive air training missiles, and missile containers; spare parts, consumables, and accessories; repair and return support; personnel training and training equipment; along with other related elements of logistics and program support.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

Boosting NATO Air Defense
Featuring all – weather and beyond – visual – range capabilities, the AMRAAMs can be fired from both jets and ground – based systems against various threats, including fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, helicopters, and drones.

The Netherlands operates these missiles on its F – 35 Lightning II aircraft and the NASAMS air defense system.

Their procurement reflects NATO’s elevated readiness posture amid suspected Russian drones encroaching Polish airspace, while also reinforcing long – term defense as the Russia – Ukraine war continues.

The announcement comes as several NATO members pursue more air defense capabilities amid heightened regional tensions.

Finland and Norway, both sharing a border with Russia, have requested AIM – 120D – 3 AMRAAMs and GBU – 39B Small Diameter Bombs, respectively.

Meanwhile, Belgium, which hosts the alliance’s main headquarters, has requested AIM – 9X Sidewinder missiles.

• The Defence Post