Norway buying hundreds of Sidewinder missiles

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential sale of AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missiles to Norway for an estimated cost of $370.9 million.

The proposed sale, which has been certified to Congress by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, includes the purchase of 300 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles, two AIM-9X Block II special air training missiles, 24 AIM-9X Block II captive air training missiles (CATM), 20 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Guidance Units, and 20 AIM-9X Block II CATM Guidance Units.

Additionally, the sale encompasses a range of non-major defence equipment (MDE) items, including dummy air training missiles, missile containers, software, training, support equipment, spare and repair parts, and related logistical support.

According to the State Department, “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.”

The department also noted that the acquisition would enhance Norway’s ability to address current and future threats, while also ensuring interoperability between Norwegian aviation forces and those of the United States and other NATO members.

The principal contractor for the sale will be RTX Corporation, based in Tucson, Arizona. The State Department clarified that no offset agreement has been proposed at this time, though any potential offsets would be determined through negotiations between Norway and the contractor.

The sale, according to the notice, is not expected to alter the regional military balance, nor will it negatively impact U.S. defence readiness. The program will involve the temporary assignment of three U.S. Government and three contractor representatives to Norway to oversee technical support requirements.

While the estimated cost of the program stands at $370.9 million, the actual dollar value may vary based on final requirements and the outcome of budget negotiations. The State Department has stated that the proposed sale aligns with both U.S. strategic interests and the defence needs of Norway as a key NATO ally.