The United States authorized a $2.9 billion sale of missiles to Germany. This was confirmed in a statement released by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which controls foreign military sales and transfers. The operation, if approved by Congress, would include some 969 AIM-120C-8 medium-range air-to-air missiles and related equipment.
The agency has already notified Congress of the State Department's approval, which must now await congressional authorization to confirm the transaction. The potential agreement includes AIM-120 training missiles, a telemetry kit, spare parts and transportation support, among "other related logistical and program support elements."
The sale comes days after the NATO summit, where the 31 leaders present addressed the current situation between Russia and Ukraine, and the rest of Europe. According to the federal government, the transaction would strengthen the security of an alliance member while promoting political and economic stability in the region.
The communiqué also noted Germany's improved defensive capability to deal with potential threats. "It will further boost the German Air Force's already high level of interoperability with U.S. joint forces and other regional and NATO forces," the message added.
This deal is part of a larger group of exchanges, including a possible $605 million transaction to sell 250 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAMs) to Sweden and another $105 million sale to modernize Romanian fighter jets.
RTX's missile and defense business segment in Tucson, Arizona, will act as the prime contractor on the operation.
AM-120 AMRAAM missiles
This type of missile is very versatile and can be used in a wide variety of circumstances, regardless of weather conditions and visual range. The new version of the weapon is smaller than its predecessor, as well as being more effective against low-altitude targets.
As for its main characteristics, its "fire-and-forget" ability stands out, which refers to its ability to take control in mid-trajectory and guide the warhead to its target.
