Netherlands To Buy 28 Sidewinder Block II Missiles From U.S

The Netherlands requested the U.S for the supply of 28 AIM-9X-2 SIDEWINDER Block II All-Up-Round Missiles and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $60 million. The U.S Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress October 16 of the possible Foreign Military Sale. The Government of the Netherlands has requested a possible sale of 28 AIM-9X-2 SIDEWINDER Block II All-Up-Round Missiles, 20 CATM-9X-2 Captive Air Training Missiles, 2 AIM-9X-2 NATM Special Air Training Missiles, 2 CATM-9X-2 Block II Missile Guidance Units, 2 AIM-9X-2 Block II Tactical Guidance Units, 2 Dummy Air Training Missiles, containers, missile support and test equipment, provisioning, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance and other related logistics support. The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNAF) is modernizing its fighter aircraft to better support the Netherlands’ air defense needs. This proposed sale of AIM-9X missiles will improve the RNAF’s capability to conduct self defense and regional security missions, and enhance its interoperability with the U.S. and other NATO members. The Netherlands will have no difficulty absorbing these missiles into its armed forces. The proposed sale of these missiles and related support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.