Washington has approved two major missile sales to European allies, authorizing Sidewinder missiles for Lithuania and Hellfire missiles for the Netherlands under the Foreign Military Sales program. Lithuania’s package, worth $214 million, includes 168 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles, additional tactical rounds, guidance units, training missiles, and support services. RTX will act as the principal contractor. The purchase expands an earlier Lithuanian order and enhances the country’s short-range air defense and tactical missile inventory. While traditionally used by fighter aircraft, the AIM-9X can also be integrated into NASAMS air defense systems already operated by Lithuania. The Netherlands has separately requested 530 AGM-114R2 Hellfire missiles in a package estimated at $200 million, with Lockheed Martin as manufacturer. Support includes technical services from US Army security assistance organizations as well as logistics and sustainment planning. Dutch forces currently employ Hellfires on AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and MQ-9A Reaper drones, making the order a logical continuation of existing inventories. US officials stated that both sales are intended to strengthen NATO allies and advance broader American security objectives. The approvals highlight continued allied demand for proven missile systems as Europe increases defense readiness and modernizes its armed forces.
