U.S. Approves $3.64B Sale of AIM-120 Missiles to Japan, Co-Production Study Planned

Jan 3, 2025, 12:41 AM

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $3.64 billion sale of up to 1,200 AIM-120D-3 and AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) and related equipment to Japan. The deal includes missile components such as propulsion sections, warheads, training missiles, up to 20 AIM-120D-3 guidance sections, and up to four AIM-120C-8 guidance sections, along with logistical and technical support. The principal contractor for the sale is RTX Corporation. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the potential sale on January 2, 2025. The approval also aligns with broader U.S.-Japan defense cooperation, including a feasibility study for potential co-production of the missiles in Japan, with Mitsubishi Electric expected to lead domestic production efforts. The sale aims to enhance Japan's defense capabilities against current and future threats, while ensuring no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness.