The US State Department has greenlit a possible $318.4-million foreign military sale to Denmark that includes up to 340 AIM-9X Block II tactical missiles. Copenhagen has also requested as many as 34 AIM-9X Block II guidance units. The proposed package includes training systems, weapon software, support gear, spare parts, and additional logistical and program support.
Denmark already operates the AIM-9X on its F-35A fighters and ground-based air defense platforms, and is expected to integrate the new equipment without difficulty. RTX has been named the prime contractor for the deal, with no offset agreements announced.
AIM-9X Block II Overview
The AIM-9X is the latest evolution of the AIM-9 series dating back to the 1950s. It incorporates a 128×128 focal plane array infrared seeker capable of high off-boresight targeting, allowing pilots to engage threats not directly in front of the aircraft. Its design combines thrust-vectoring control with aerodynamic surfaces for exceptional maneuverability in close-range air combat.
The Block II version introduces a new fuse, a digital ignition safety device, upgraded electronics, and a datalink supporting lock-on-after-launch capability and limited beyond visual range performance. Weighing 188 pounds (85.3 kilograms), the missile has an estimated range of 20 miles (32 kilometers) and can exceed speeds of Mach 2.5 (1,918 miles or 3,087 kilometers per hour). It is compatible with a wide array of modern platforms, including the F-15C/E, F-16, F/A-18, EA-18G, F-22, and all F-35 variants.
