The United States has approved the sale of "Sidewinder" missiles (AIM-9X Sidewinder) to Belgium in a deal worth 280 million euros, the Belgian agency Belga reported, citing a statement from the US Department of Defense, BTA reported.
Belgium will receive several hundred air-to-air missiles and associated guidance devices for its new fleet of F-35 fighter jets. The country is introducing this generation of fighter jets to replace aging F-16s.
“This sale will enhance Belgium's ability to deal with current and future threats and support NATO's defense mission“, the Pentagon said.“The purchase is part of a Belgian program aimed at compensating for long-standing ammunition shortages. The plan was approved by the government in Brussels in July.“Delivery dates for the missiles have not yet been confirmed, with ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East extending implementation deadlines.“
According to the Pentagon, the deal also serves broader strategic interests. “The proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by strengthening the security of a NATO ally that is a driver of political stability and economic progress in Europe“, the statement said.“