RTX Corp. (RTX), a leading aerospace and defense firm, has revealed a significant development as its division, Raytheon, has been awarded a $736 million contract by the U.S. Navy. This contract is designated for the production of AIM-9X SIDEWINDER missiles.
The work stipulated in this contract will occur at various U.S. locations and is expected to continue through 2029.
The contract focuses on the enhanced Block II version of the missile, which incorporates upgrades addressing hardware obsolescence to ensure optimized performance and reliability over time.
The AIM-9X stands as the world's most advanced infrared-tracking, short-range missile, capable of both air-to-air and surface-to-air engagements.
It is designed for seamless integration with a wide array of contemporary aircraft and offers a tested layered defense capability, with ground-launched options like the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System.
A joint initiative led by the U.S. Navy in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force, the AIM-9X is operational in over 30 allied and partner nations and continues to attract international interest.