Washington, DC [US]: The United States State Department has approved a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Turkiye involving AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related logistical and program support, with a total estimated value of USD 225 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed on Wednesday.
“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Republic of Turkiye… The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today,” the official statement said.
Key Components of the Deal
Under the agreement, Turkiye has requested the acquisition of:
- 53 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles
- 6 AMRAAM guidance sections
- AMRAAM containers and support equipment
- Common Munitions Built-in-Test Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE)
- Spare parts, repair and return support
- Software, classified publications, and technical documentation
- US government and contractor engineering and logistics support
The primary contractor for the sale will be RTX Corporation, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona.
The DSCA clarified that no US government personnel will be assigned to Turkiye for implementation of the sale and that the transaction will not negatively affect US defense readiness.
Strategic Implications and Regional Stability
The US State Department emphasized that the deal aligns with Washington’s broader foreign policy and national security interests, as it enhances the capabilities of Turkiye, a NATO ally, in the context of regional and global security.
“This proposed sale will provide Turkiye with a critical air defense capability to assist in defending its homeland and US personnel stationed there,” the department stated.
“It will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”
This move comes amid heightened geopolitical sensitivities and broader defense realignments within NATO, especially as member states navigate tensions in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
No Offset Agreement Yet
Currently, no offset agreements—compensatory arrangements typically tied to foreign arms deals—have been finalized. Any such agreement will be subject to future negotiations between Turkiye and RTX Corporation.
Background: AMRAAM and Strategic Significance
The AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM is one of the most advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles in the US arsenal, featuring beyond-visual-range capability and active radar homing, making it a key element in modern aerial combat. Its deployment by NATO allies boosts interoperability and regional defense integration.
Turkiye, which continues to balance its role within NATO while navigating regional conflicts and alliances, is expected to integrate the missiles into its existing air defense systems, including F-16 fighter aircraft currently in service.