U.S. Approves Japan’s $3.64B Purchase of AMRAAM Missiles

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $3.64 billion sale of AIM-120D-3 and AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment to Japan.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the potential sale.

The Japanese government has requested up to 1,200 AIM-120 AMRAAMs, including the D-3 and C-8 variants, along with 20 AIM-120D-3 guidance sections and four AIM-120C-8 guidance sections. The deal also includes propulsion sections, warheads, captive air training missiles, missile containers, spares, and classified software, among other components. The package will also cover logistical, engineering, and technical support.

RTX Corporation will serve as the principal contractor for the sale.

Building on a July 2024 agreement between the U.S. and Japan to explore "co-production opportunities" for missile systems, Tokyo and Washington are set to launch a feasibility study for manufacturing AMRAAMs in Japan. The study will focus on addressing supply chain challenges, production timelines, and the viability of establishing a production line within Japan.

According to Japan's Ministry of Defense, the initiative aims to replenish American missile stockpiles, which have been strained by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The study was expedited following discussions in Hawaii between U.S. and Japanese officials.

Japan’s largest air-to-air missile manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric, is expected to lead domestic production efforts under a licensing agreement. However, the company will need to expand its manufacturing capabilities to meet demand.