RTX-owned Raytheon has secured a $1.1 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to produce AIM-9X Block II missiles, expanding production of one of the military’s most widely deployed short-range air defense weapons. The contract will replenish U.S. inventories while supporting growing demand from allied nations through Foreign Military Sales.
The agreement covers AIM-9X missiles along with associated hardware and software for U.S. and international customers. It also supports Raytheon’s broader effort to increase annual production capacity to 2,500 missiles as demand continues to climb.
The AIM-9X Block II is the latest version of the Sidewinder missile family, featuring an imaging infrared seeker, thrust-vectoring control, and lock-on-after-launch capability. These features allow the missile to engage highly maneuverable targets and receive updated targeting information after launch, improving flexibility in combat.
Originally designed as an air-to-air weapon, the AIM-9X has also been adapted for ground-based air defense through the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), giving militaries an additional layer of protection against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and other airborne threats.
Expanding missile output
Raytheon said the latest contract will help sustain higher production rates as orders from the U.S. military and partner nations continue to grow.
“Our teams have streamlined production, shortened lead times and ramped up deliveries of AIM-9X missiles to keep pace with growing demand,” said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon.
“This contract, along with our close partnership with the U.S. Navy, allows us to sustain that momentum and ensure U.S. and allied forces have this advanced, combat-proven capability they depend on in high threat environments.”
The company said the AIM-9X remains the most advanced infrared-tracking short-range missile in its class. It can be installed on a wide range of combat aircraft, including the F-35 Lightning II, F/A-18 Super Hornet, F-15 Eagle, and F-16 Fighting Falcon, while its compatibility with NASAMS extends its role beyond fighter aircraft into integrated air defense networks.
The production increase reflects rising demand for precision-guided weapons as the U.S. and its allies continue to modernize their military inventories amid evolving global security challenges. More than 35 allied and partner nations currently operate the AIM-9X, making it one of the most widely fielded short-range missiles in service.
Supporting allied forces
Most of the work under the contract will be carried out at Raytheon’s facility in Tucson, Arizona, where the company is also expanding its engineering workforce to support missile, air defense, and other military programs.
The latest award follows broader efforts across the U.S. defense industry to expand missile production capacity as governments seek to replenish stockpiles and accelerate deliveries of advanced weapons. Increasing manufacturing output has become a priority for both domestic requirements and Foreign Military Sales programs.
Raytheon said the AIM-9X’s combination of high agility, infrared guidance, and compatibility with both airborne and ground-based launch systems makes it a key component of modern layered air defense.
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With over a decade-long career in journalism, Neetika Walter has worked with The Economic Times, ANI, and Hindustan Times, covering politics, business, technology, and the clean energy sector. Passionate about contemporary culture, books, poetry, and storytelling, she brings depth and insight to her writing. When she isn’t chasing stories, she’s likely lost in a book or enjoying the company of her dogs.