On December 6, 2024, the US State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Netherlands, involving up to 226 AIM-120D-3 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment, for an estimated cost of $807 million, further building on earlier purchases of AMRAAM variants by the Netherlands and aligning with the ongoing expansion of the Netherlands’ F-35 fleet. The primary contractor for this sale is Raytheon Missiles & Defense, located in Tucson, Arizona.
The requested items include 226 AIM-120D-3 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM), five guidance sections with precise navigation systems such as M-Code or Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM), and one AIM-120 AMRAAM Integrated Test Vehicle (ITV). Additional items include AMRAAM control sections, missile containers, KGV-135A encryption devices, spare parts, repair and return support, classified software, technical publications, transportation, engineering services, and logistics support. Raytheon Missiles & Defense, located in Tucson, Arizona, is designated as the principal contractor.
The AIM-120D-3, also known as the AMRAAM F3R (Form, Fit, Function Refresh), represents an upgraded variant within the AMRAAM series. It includes enhancements such as a two-way data link and GPS navigation to improve accuracy, particularly in electronic warfare environments. Compared to its predecessors, including the AIM-120C-7, the AIM-120D-3 offers a 50% increase in range, estimated between 160 and 180 kilometers, though specific figures remain classified. The missile’s updated guidance and electronic systems are designed to improve operational effectiveness in long-range engagements.