New move in defense exports from the US: Long-range missile production for allies begins
US-based defense company RTX is moving to full-rate production for next-generation AMRAAM-ER missiles following a major $234.7 million contract.
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Under a high-value contract signed between the United States Department of Defense and RTX, AMRAAM-ER missiles to be used in NASAMS air defense systems will now be produced through full-rate serial production. It was reported that the initial $61.5 million budget allocated under the program is fully covered by the financing of export customers. Shipments are planned to be completed by April 2030, and deliveries will be directed to the militaries of allied countries through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
This production program marks a transition from a low-rate production period in defense technologies to large-scale production capable of meeting demand rapidly. It aims to make a significant contribution to the modern defense network of the US, NATO, and other allied nations.
The standout feature of the AMRAAM-ER missiles is their ability to be easily adapted to existing systems and their technological upgradability. In addition to the advanced guidance systems and warhead technology of the AIM-120C-8 model, the high-performance rocket motor transferred from the RIM-162 ESSM program allows the range to exceed approximately 60 kilometers. Thus, the coverage area of NASAMS integrated air defense systems is being significantly expanded.
Among the users of these new missiles, countries such as Hungary, Kuwait, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, and Taiwan stand out. These countries will update their air defense capabilities with the improved AMRAAM-ER missiles to be added to their inventories, placing them in a more effective position against modern threats.
This new missile, which has entered serial production, offers a "fire-and-forget" capability with its active radar-guided seeker. It can demonstrate a wide engagement capability against threats from different platforms (ranging from fixed-wing aircraft to unmanned aerial vehicles). The AMRAAM-ER, which can be fired at an angle from ground-based launchers, strengthens the multi-layered protection structure of the NASAMS system while providing countries with strategic depth and operational flexibility.
In conclusion, with this major $234.7 million agreement, the air defense of both the US and its international allies is being moved to the next level. With serial production, it is anticipated that next-generation defense technologies will spread rapidly.