The Department of State has approved a potential $264.6 million foreign military sale of over 200 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II+ and Block II missiles and guidance units, along with other products and support services, to Canada.
RTX manufactures the AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range missiles, which are designed to be compatible with modern aircraft, including the F-15C Eagle, the F-15E Strike Eagle, the F-16 Fighting Falcon and all F-35 Joint Strike Fighter variants, for use in air-to-air engagements and surface-launch missions.
The weapon features a lock-on-after-launch capability using a new weapon datalink to support beyond-visual-range engagements.
The Canadian government requested to purchase 48 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II+ and 120 Block II tactical missiles, 48 units each of Block II captive air training missiles and special air training missiles; four Block II+ tactical guidance units; 12 Block II tactical guidance units; and eight Block II guidance units.
As the weapon manufacturer, RTX will be the principal contractor of the potential FMS.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the proposed sale will enhance Canada’s capability to deter aggression, ensure its interoperability with U.S. forces and strengthen its homeland defense. Improving the security of a NATO ally supports the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States, it added.