Belgium, Netherlands, Norway Seek $1.3B Worth of U.S.-made Missiles, Torpedoes

The U.S. State Department has approved three separate possible Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Belgium, the Netherlands, and Norway, totaling nearly $1.3 billion, as European nations continue to expand their defense capabilities following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

On September 15, the State Department cleared a potential $567.8 million sale to Belgium, covering up to 320 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles, 258 AIM-9X Block II+ Sidewinder missiles, 50 Block II guidance units, and 30 Block II+ guidance units. The package also includes missile containers, software, training, and logistical support for integration with Belgium’s F-35 fleet.

On September 16, the Netherlands was approved for a possible $570 million purchase of up to 232 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and eight AMRAAM guidance sections, along with training equipment, spares, and system support. The Netherlands already operates AMRAAMs and is expected to absorb the new systems without issue.

Norway has also been cleared for a $162.1 million request to acquire 50 MK 54 MOD 0 lightweight torpedoes, plus associated training, spare parts, and technical support. Norway currently operates the MK 54 torpedo system.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certifications notifying Congress of the possible sales.

The proposed transfers support foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening NATO allies’ ability to counter current and future threats, while not altering the basic military balance in the region, the DSCA said in an official release.

RTX Corporation will serve as the principal contractor for all three sales.