US approves advanced air-launched missiles for Türkiye

Türkiye has been approved to acquire advanced versions of the AMRAAM and Sidewinder missiles to equip its F-16 combat aircraft. (Turkish Air Force)

The United States has approved the sale of advanced air-launched missiles to Türkiye for an estimated USD304.1 million.

In two separate notifications posted by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 14 May, the Department of State approved the sale of 53 RTX AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) for USD225 million and 60 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II short-range air-to-air missiles for USD79.1 million. Both approvals included related equipment, training, and support.

“This proposed sale will provide Türkiye with a critical air-defence capability to assist in defending its homeland and US personnel stationed there,” the DSCA said of both potential sales.

In Turkish Air Force service, both missile types will be carried by the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon combat aircraft.

For more information on recent DSCA AIM-120C-8 and AIM-9X Block II approvals, please seeUS approves additional AMRAAMs for Saudi ArabiaandUS approves further AIM-9X Block II missiles for Norway
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