The US State Division has authorized a possible $211m (€181m) international navy sale of superior medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAM) and related tools to Italy.
Italy seeks to obtain 30 AIM-120D-3 AMRAAMs, 40 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs, and two AIM-120C-7 AMRAAM steerage sections.
Moreover, the proposed transaction encompasses non-major defence tools objects reminiscent of spare management sections and containers for AMRAAMs, in addition to needed elements for repairs, consumables, equipment, and assist for restore and return processes.
The package deal additionally consists of assist for weapon techniques and software program, supply of each categorised and unclassified software program and assist companies, technical documentation, coaching for personnel alongside coaching equipment, engineering companies from each US authorities and contracted entities, technical help, logistical assist companies, and different associated components important for logistics and programme assist.
The Protection Safety Cooperation Company (DSCA) has notified Congress about this potential sale.
DSCA mentioned in a press release: “This proposed sale will assist the international coverage targets and nationwide safety targets of the US by bettering the safety of a Nato Ally that may be a drive for political stability and financial progress in Europe.”
The company mentioned that the potential will increase Italy’s capabilities in countering current and future aerial threats by offering it with up to date air-to-air munitions.
Moreover, it’s anticipated to advertise interoperability between the US forces, Nato allies, and the Italian Armed Forces.
At the moment, Italy operates AMRAAMs inside its navy framework. The transaction is just not projected to disrupt the prevailing navy stability throughout the area, DSCA mentioned.
In 2024, Italy has allocated $30.8bn to its defence budget, as per a GlobalData report. The projections point out that from 2025 to 2029, the defence price range will expertise a compound annual development price (CAGR) of barely over -1%.
Elements propelling the enlargement of Italy’s defence market embody modernisation efforts, acquisition of recent platforms, and heightened tensions with Russia, notes the report.
RTX has been recognized because the principal contractor for this sale.
At the moment, no offset agreements are identified to be related to this potential sale; such agreements can be decided throughout negotiations between Italy and RTX.
In April 2025, the US State Division authorized an estimated $1.04bn (A$1.8bn) potential foreign military sale of AMRAAM to Australian Defence Drive.
