Raytheon, an RTX business, was awarded a $736 million contract from the U.S. Navy to produce AIM-9X SIDEWINDER missiles.
This contract is for the improved Block II variant, which addresses hardware obsolescence through upgrades to ensure superior performance and long-term reliability.
AIM-9X is an infrared-tracking, short-range, air-to-air and surface-to-air missile configured for a wide range of aircraft. It provides layered defense with ground-launched capabilities, including the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, or NASAMS.
“AIM-9X remains the weapon of choice for short-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile defense, and worldwide customer demand is strong,” said Barbara Borgonovi , president of Naval Power at Raytheon.
“We’re investing, innovating, and partnering with our U.S. Navy customer to significantly increase our AIM-9X production capacity starting with orders next year.”
Work under this contract will take place in various locations within the continental U.S. through 2029, according to Raytheon.