July 9, 2023

Sweden to procure 250 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles

By Defence Industry Europe

On July 7, the US State Department approved the sale of Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) with related equipment to Sweden. According to the Defence and Security Cooperation Agency's statement, the estimated value of the future contract is USD 605 million. The producer of AMRAAM missiles is the American defense giant Raytheon Missiles & Defense (RTX).

This price includes 250 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, up to six AMRAAM C-8 guidance sections, and additional equipment and services.

“The proposed sale will improve Sweden’s capability to meet and deter current and future threats in the region by ensuring Sweden has modern, capable air-to-air munitions. This sale will further advance the already high level of Swedish Air Force interoperability with US joint forces and other regional and NATO forces. Sweden will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces,” the DSCA said in a press release.

The first AIM-120A AMRAAM missiles, totaling 213 pieces, were purchased in 1994. They served as the basic medium-range weapon of the Saab JAS-39 Gripen multi-role combat aircraft deployed to the frontlines. Another batch of 53 AIM-120C-5s was ordered in 2004. Considering the expansion of aviation capabilities and Sweden’s upcoming accession to NATO, it should not be surprising that the Swedes want to expand their stockpiles. It cannot be ruled out that older examples will be sent to Ukraine as military aid.