The U.S. State Department has greenlit a potential $100 million sale of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to Lithuania, further fortifying the Baltic nation’s defense capabilities, according to a recent announcement.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency officially notified Congress of this prospective sale.
Lithuania has expressed its interest in acquiring thirty-six AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs and one AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM Guidance Section as part of this deal. Additionally, it includes munitions support and support equipment, classified software delivery and support, as well as classified and unclassified publications and technical documentation.
The primary contractor for this proposed sale will be Raytheon Missiles and Defense, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, DSCA said in its announcement.
Raytheon is a renowned producer of defense technology has been manufacturing AMRAAM missiles since 1997. These missiles are considered one of the world’s most widely used air-to-air armaments, having seen over 14,000 produced for the U.S. military and 33 international customers. While they have been a staple in NATO armaments, recent years have witnessed increased emphasis on foreign sales.
AMRAAM missiles can be integrated into the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) launcher, which is the most commonly utilized short- and medium-range air defense system within NATO.
The proposed sale is intended for use with NASAMS, further enhancing Lithuania’s capacity for self-defense and regional security missions, while simultaneously advancing its interoperability with the United States and other NATO members.