Rs 47500000000: Mach 4 speed, 160 km range, equipped with GPS, THIS country has signed a mega deal with Trump, it is…
The US State Department has approved a possible sale to Netherlands of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles.
The United States has authorized the sale of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) to the Netherlands. The proposed sale, which consists of approximately 232 missiles and associated equipment, is valued at $570 million (about Rs 4,750 crore). According to the media reports, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) indicated that the proposed sale will enhance the Netherlands’ air defense combat capability.
Which missiles are being supplied? Where will these missiles be deployed?
The Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force (RNLASF) currently employs AMRAAMs. The addition of the AIM-120C-8 will allow the RNLASF to carry and launch them from its next-generation fighter aircraft, including the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.
If media reports are to be believed, the AIM-120C-8 variant is an upgrade over the AIM-120C-7 and has incorporated GPS, an improved data link, and updated software.
- Speed: Mach 4 (about 4,900 km/h).
- Range: Approximately 160 kilometers.
- System: Active radar seeker to locate and engage enemy targets.
Although there was speculation about a dual-mode seeker (active + passive RF homing), U.S. officials have not confirmed this. The deal doesn’t just cover missiles; it also includes several other components and support systems:
- Captive air training missiles.
- Spare parts, containers, and repair support.
- Classified and unclassified software, along with documentation.
- Transport and logistics support.
- Personnel training and technical assistance.
Who signed the mega missile deal with the U.S.? What does the deal include?
“The following non-Major Defense Equipment items will be included: AMRAAM control section spares, Captive Air Training Missiles, and missile containers; spare parts, consumables and accessories, and repair and return support; weapon system support and software; classified software delivery and support; classified and unclassified publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training equipment; transportation support; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support,” US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) in an statement said.
The U.S. State Department has stated that this sale is more than a defense sale; it is also part of larger foreign policy priorities and national security interests. Strengthening the Netherlands, which is a significant NATO ally, also supports U.S. interests in advancing political stability and economic development in Europe.
Who is the main contractor for this deal?
In recent years, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and intensified drone strikes from Russia have increased security concerns across Europe. Russian drones even recently entered Poland, directly notifying NATO of the threat. With this, supplying the Netherlands with such advanced missiles is a clear signal by the US to let Europe know it is not alone.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
- The United States has authorized the sale of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) to the Netherlands.
- The proposed sale consists of approximately 232 missiles and associated equipment.
- The deal is valued at $570 million (about Rs 4,750 crore).
- The major contractor for this deal will be RTX Corporation.
The major contractor for this deal will be RTX Corporation, located in Arlington, VA. The US government stated this sale will not interfere with US defense readiness, meaning capabilities against its own military will not be impacted.
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