The Department of State has approved a proposed $59 million foreign military sale of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles to Japan.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Tokyo wants to purchase 44 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block IIs and 29 AIM-9X Sidewinder captive air training missiles.
The deal also involves providing Japan with missile containers, spare and repair parts, repair of repairables, support and test equipment, and publications and technical documentation.
Additionally, the agreement requires after-sales services, including personnel training and training equipment, technical assistance, engineering, transportation and program support, DSCA said.
The upcoming sale, which requires congressional review and approval, is expected to bolster the security of the Asian country, which the United States regards as a major partner and an important ally in advancing political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region.
The arms deal would also complement U.S. capabilities and build the U.S.-Japan alliance.
DSCA identified RTX, based in Tucson, Arizona, as the proposed deal’s principal contractor.
