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The United States State Department has approved a potential $304.1 million sale of missiles and related equipment to Türkiye, the Pentagon announced Wednesday.
The deal includes 53 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) and six AMRAAM guidance units, valued at approximately $225 million. These missiles are used primarily in air combat scenarios and are compatible with F-16 fighter jets, which form a key component of Türkiye’s air force.
Additionally, the State Department approved the sale of 60 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles, 11 AIM-9X tactical guidance units, and various logistical and program support services. This portion of the deal is valued at $79.1 million.
"This proposed sale will provide Türkiye with a critical air defense capability to assist in defending its homeland and U.S. personnel stationed there," the Pentagon said in a statement.
The proposed sale has been submitted to the U.S. Congress, which has 15 days to raise any objections. If no objections are filed within that period, the sale will proceed as planned. Meanwhile, RTX Corporation, based in Arizona, will serve as the principal contractor.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the possible sale on Wednesday.
Manufactured by Raytheon, the AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II is one of the most advanced short-range infrared-guided missiles in the world. It can be deployed in air-to-air, air-to-surface, and surface-to-air roles without modification.
The missile is 3 meters long, weighs 85 kilograms, and carries a 9.3-kilogram fragmentation warhead. It has an effective range of approximately 30 kilometers.
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