In the United States, the Department of State has approved a potential foreign military sale (FMS) to the Government of Denmark of AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $318.4 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has issued the required certification, notifying Congress.

The Government of Denmark has requested the purchase of up to three hundred and forty AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles and up to thirty-four AIM-9X Block II tactical guidance units.

Denmark currently uses the AIM-9X missile system with Lockheed Martin’s F-35A Lightning II aircraft and plans to use it with KONGSBERG/RTX’s NASAMS 3 land-based air defense systems which will provide low-level and short/medium-range coverage.

Features of the AIM-9X Block II

The Block II version of the AIM-9X maintains the 127 millimeter diameter (the original diameter of the Zuni rocket from which the AIM-9 was derived) of the Sidewinder, weighs 85 kg, and reaches a speed around mach 2.5 and a range of 40 km when launched from the air.

The new type multifunctional explosive warhead weighs 9.5 kg, with a redesigned fuse; if necessary, the pilot can lock the engagement after launch.

The missile is equipped with a digital ignition safety device that improves maneuverability and safety in flight, as well as a new data link to support beyond visual range (BVR) engagement.

Source: Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA)

Photo credit: @RTX Corporation