The United States State Department has green-lighted a significant arms deal, permitting the potential sale of RTX’s AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles to Belgium for a total of $567.8 million. This transaction aims to bolster Belgium’s defense capabilities in alignment with NATO’s strategic objectives.
The proposed package encompasses a substantial array of advanced missile systems, including 320 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles and 258 AIM-9X Block II+ variants. Additionally, it includes 50 AIM-9X Block II tactical guidance units and 30 Block II+ tactical guidance units specifically designed for integration with Belgium’s F-35 Lightning II fleet.
In support of the deal, the package also covers missile containers, essential weapon software, and various logistical services. These enhancements are projected to significantly augment the operational effectiveness of Belgium’s air force, contributing to NATO’s overall defense readiness.
Earlier this month, the U.S. had also endorsed a possible foreign military sale that could involve up to 96 AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles for three NATO allies, further emphasizing the commitment to strengthen allied defense capabilities in Europe.
Belgium has been actively modernizing its military assets, having announced its intention to acquire 34 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets back in 2018, which were intended to replace the aging F-16 Fighting Falcons, a model that has served since 1979. Pilot training has commenced at Luke Air Force Base in the United States, and an additional order for 11 F-35 jets was placed in July this year.
The complete fleet of 45 F-35 Lightning II aircraft is expected to achieve operational status by the year 2031, marking a significant upgrade in Belgium’s air combat abilities.
