US approves sale of Sidewinder missiles to Romania

The sale is part of a larger and long-term modernisation initiative launched by the US in support of the Romanian Air Force, the US Embassy in Bucharest said in a press release.

“This procurement is not just a transaction; it’s a testament to our shared commitment to security and peace. These advanced missiles will ensure the safety of Romanian skies,” chargé d’affaires Michael Dickerson said.

The Block II missiles feature the most advanced technology of the AIM-9X Sidewinder range that is currently in service with the U.S. military.

The deal includes a logistical support package, including spare guided warheads, training missiles, personnel training, technical assistance, as well as technical documentation and transport services, Romania’s defence ministry said in a separate press release on Friday.

“The Romanian Air Force's access to state-of-the-art air-to-air capabilities significantly contributes to increasing the safety of national and allied airspace and ensures a high degree of interoperability with similar structures of the US Army," Romania’s defence minister, Angel Tilvar said.

The AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II can use datalink, thrust vectoring maneuverability, and advanced imaging infrared seeker to hit targets behind the launching fighter, according to information published on the Naval Air Systems Command’s (NAVAIR) website. The missile offers fighter aircrew “first shot, first kill” opportunities that are crucial for survival during air combat manoeuvres. Its range and speed are classified.

In November 2022, Romania’s government signed a contract for the acquisition of 32 F-16 fighter jets from Norway for 388 million euro, the defence ministry said in a press release at the time. The first three aircraft from this order arrived in Romania in July 2023, supplementing the twenty F-16 jets already operational in the country.

($=0.9272 euro)