The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has announced the approval of a potential $102.5 million Foreign Military Sale to Israel. The package includes thirty AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related support equipment for air and missile defence. The DSCA has notified Congress of the proposed sale.
The sale covers a range of defence equipment, including AMRAAM control sections, containers, Common Munitions Built-In-Test/Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE) and ADU-891/E Adapter Group Computer Test Sets. The package also includes spare parts, accessories, repair support, classified software, munitions support and technical documentation. RTX Corporation, located in Tucson, Arizona, will serve as the prime contractor.
Counter UAS implications
The AMRAAM missiles are intended to strengthen Israel’s defence against a variety of airborne threats, with particular relevance to countering UAS attacks such as those launched by Iran on April 14. The advanced capabilities of these missiles, including improved targeting precision, are crucial for addressing the growing threat posed by UAS, especially in scenarios involving multiple or swarm-like attacks.
In addition to enhancing Israel’s air defence capabilities, the proposed sale is expected to involve the assignment of three U.S. Government representatives and one contractor representative to Israel. These personnel will provide technical assistance, oversee the installation and integration of the equipment and conduct training over a three-year period.
The proposed sale is designed to ensure that Israel remains equipped to counter both current and future threats, while maintaining a strong self-defence posture. The DSCA has confirmed that this sale will not alter the regional military balance and will have no adverse impact on U.S. defence readiness.
The estimated cost of $102.5 million reflects the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. The final cost may be lower depending on budget authority and the terms of the sales agreement.
Post Image – U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Zarate, 325th Munitions Squadron precision guided missiles crew chief, screws down cables on an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range, Air-to-Air missiles at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, (Post Image Credit: U.S. Air Force)
