The U.S. Department of State has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of AMRAAM missiles to the governments of Norway and Romania, in both surface-to-air and air-to-air versions.
New ammunition for Norwegian NASAMS systems
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) reported that Norway has requested the purchase of up to 100 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles with Extended Range (AMRAAM-ER) and four AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM guidance sections.
In addition to the AMRAAM-ER missiles, the acquisition includes a wide range of associated equipment and services, such as transport containers, maintenance equipment, spare parts, specialized software, technical documentation, training, and logistics support. This comprehensive package, valued at $405 million, ensures the full operability and maintenance of the new weapon systems in the Norwegian inventory.
With this potential purchase, Norway seeks to complement and replace AIM-120B AMRAAM missiles with the more capable AMRAAM-ER, used as ammunition for the Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), significantly expanding its lethality against multiple air targets (such as cruise missiles, aircraft, helicopters, and drones).
More AMRAAM missiles for Romanian fighters
Similarly, the United States has approved the sale of Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) AIM-120.
The DSCA reported that Romania has requested the purchase of a package of 186 AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missiles for a value of $592 million. In addition to the missiles, the acquisition includes a wide range of associated equipment and services, such as training missiles, containers, spare parts, technical support, and documentation. This purchase aims to strengthen Romania’s defensive capabilities and modernize its armed forces.
This request for AMRAAM missiles comes in addition to a previous order for 300 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II air-to-air missiles, placed last May for a value of $340.8 million.
