US Navy orders AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles for $736 million

RTX received a $736 million contract from the US Navy to produce AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles.

Here's What We Know

This contract is for an improved version of the Block II missile that eliminates the problems of the older versions.

"The AIM-9X remains the best short-range weapon for air-to-air and surface-to-air missile defence, and customer demand around the world is strong," said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Raytheon.

The AIM-9X is the world's most advanced short-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile with infrared tracking. The missile can be mounted on a wide range of modern aircraft. It also provides a proven echeloned defence with ground-based capabilities, including NASAMS.

The AIM-9X is used in more than 30 allied countries. In March 2024, the Czech Republic became the latest international customer to sign an agreement to purchase the missile for use on its F-35 aircraft.

Flashback

The AIM-9X Sidewinder is an advanced infrared air-to-air guided missile. It is the latest version of the Sidewinder family, which has been in use since the 1950s. The AIM-9X has an advanced heat-seeking homing system that makes it effective against manoeuvrable aircraft and drones. The missile is equipped with a thrust vector that allows it to perform complex manoeuvres and supports "beyond line-of-sight" strikes. It is used on fighter aircraft such as the F-16, F-18 and F-35. The AIM-9X also has the ability to engage targets with high accuracy and at short ranges.

Source: Defence Industry Europe