The US has approved the sale to the Netherlands of AARGM-ER anti-radar missiles for the F-35 Lightning II

The US State Department has approved the sale of AARGM-ER anti-radar missiles to the Netherlands.

Here's What We Know

The information appeared on the website of the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The approximate value of the contract is $700 million. For this money the Dutch Army will receive 265 AARGM-ER, as well as additional spare parts and control modules. The Netherlands will use the missiles with fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters.

Flashback

The AARGM-ER or Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile Extended Range is a deep modernisation of the AGM-88E AARGM missile. In the US, the carriers of such missiles are also fourth-generation F/A-18EF Super Hornet deck fighters along with the mentioned F-35 Lightning II and EA-18G Growler. The missile is designed to suppress enemy air defence systems. The AARGM-ER has an inertial guidance system, GPS and an active-passive radar homing head. The 70kg warhead contains 12,845 tungsten impactors.

Source: DSCA