U.S. Approves $1.23 Billion Missile Sale to Germany for F-35 Program
WASHINGTON D.C. – The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $1.23 billion sale of AIM-120D-3 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to Germany, bolstering the nation’s air defence capabilities as it integrates the F-35 fighter jet into its armed forces. RTX Corporation is the principal contractor for the sale.
The deal, announced today, provides Germany with advanced air-to-air weaponry crucial for enhancing its ability to counter current and future threats, and supports joint planning, training, and operational requirements with NATO allies. This acquisition is particularly significant as Germany modernizes its air force and prepares for increasingly complex security challenges in Europe. The State Department affirmed Germany will readily incorporate the missiles into its military infrastructure.
The AIM-120D-3 represents the most advanced iteration of the AMRAAM family, benefiting from updates stemming from the U.S. air Force’s Form, Fit, and Function (F3R) upgrade. These improvements include software enhancements, updated circuit cards for the missile guidance system, and increased resilience against electronic warfare tactics.
According to the State Department,the proposed sale will “improve Germany’s ability to face current and future threats by providing greater air-to-air capacity for the German F-35 program and supporting planning,training and operational requirements of Germany and NATO together.”
