Ukraine Receives AIM-9X Block II Missiles, Marking First Confirmed Use in Service

Oct 12, 2024, 06:29 AM

Ukraine has reportedly received the AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, marking the first confirmed appearance of these advanced weapons in Ukrainian service. The missiles were spotted in close-up images and have been previously observed being launched from NASAMS systems. They possess Lock-On After Launch (LOAL) capability, allowing them to engage targets without maintaining a pre-launch lock. With a range exceeding 16 kilometers when deployed from F-16 fighter jets, the AIM-9X is among the most modern air-to-air missiles in the world. The introduction of these missiles is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of Ukrainian aviation, including its F-16 pilots.