US approves sale of AIM-120 missiles to Denmark for over $700 million

30 October, 2024 An AIM-120 AMRAAM missile during transport at the air base. Photo from open sources The U.S.

State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Denmark of 203 AIM-120D-3 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency of the US Department of Defense reported on this. The estimated cost of supplying missiles and related logistical support elements is £744 million.

The supply will also include spare AMRAAM control sections, auxiliary equipment, and spare parts. In addition, consumables and accessories will be provided, as well as software and technical and logistics support services.

Launching an AIM-120 missile from a fighter jet. Photo from open sources

This proposed sale will support the United States' foreign policy goals and national security objectives by improving the security of a NATO Ally.

The principal contractor will be RTX Corporation, located in Tucson, AZ. The U.S. Department of State said the proposed sale would increase Denmark's combat capability, improving its capability to meet current and future threats.

The new missiles will be armed with fifth-generation F-35A fighter jets, the first four of which arrived in Denmark last September at the Skrydstrup air base.

AIM-120 missile

AIM-120 AMRAAM is an American all-weather guided missile developed by the American defense company Raytheon Technologies. The missile was adopted into service with the U.S. Army in 1991.

It is the main medium-range missile for American and European fighter jets.

Illustration: AIM-120C AMRAAM missile

The missile is equipped with an active radar homing system capable of capturing an air target at a distance of at least 20 km.