U.S. Sells AIM-9X, Hellfire II Missiles Worth Nearly US$900 Million to Saudi Arabia
The United States has approved the potential sale of 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for use with Saudi Arabia's F-15 fighter jets, as well as 2,500 Hellfire II missiles for the Middle Eastern nation's AH-64D/E Apache attack helicopters.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of various types of missiles and other weapons to Saudi Arabia, estimated to be worth $900 million (RM3.86 billion), in an effort to enhance the defense capabilities of its key ally in the Middle East.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified the U.S. Congress of the potential sale.
“The sale of these weapons to Saudi Arabia will assist the nation in addressing current and future security threats,” stated the DSCA.
The sale includes 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, missile software, training, support equipment, spare parts, technical assistance from contractors, and various other forms of support.
The air-to-air missiles are believed to be intended for the Royal Saudi Air Force’s F-15 fighter jets.
The acquisition of the 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles by Saudi Arabia is expected to cost $251.8 million (RM1.08 billion).
The AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder is a modern infrared-guided air-to-air missile capable of striking targets up to 32 kilometers away.
RTX (formerly Raytheon) is the primary contractor for the procurement of these missiles.
In addition to the air-to-air missiles, Saudi Arabia is also set to acquire 2,500 AGM-114R3 Hellfire II missiles, estimated to be worth $655 million (RM2.8 billion).
These Hellfire II missiles are intended for use with the Saudi Army’s AH-64DE Apache attack helicopters. – DSA
