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Economic Times
16-05-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Pakistan's ally Turkey to buy AMRAAM missiles worth $225 million from US to boost its air defence: What it means
The United States has approved a $225 million missile sale to Türkiye, a key NATO ally, aimed at enhancing its air defence capabilities. This deal includes 53 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs and associated logistical support. While the sale underlines strategic cooperation, it also raises regional stakes, especially with Türkiye's past purchase of Russian S-400 systems. The transaction unfolds amid complex US-Türkiye ties, and coincides with growing military coordination, even as Türkiye eyes further US weapons, including the F-35 fighter jets. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Why it matters: An air defence upgrade for Ankara A complicated but durable US-Turkey military ties From fallout to forward steps: The S-400 shadow Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Behind the Missiles: Trade, tensions, and energy In a significant development, the United States has cleared a potential sale of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to Turkey. The deal, estimated at $225 million, was confirmed by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 14 proposed package includes 53 AIM-120C-8 missiles and six guidance sections. Alongside, the package also covers AMRAAM containers, BIT reprogramming gear, spares, software, technical documentation, and logistics assistance.'The proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that continues to be a force for political and economic stability in Europe,' said the a long-standing NATO member and regional military power, will face no difficulties in absorbing the technology into its armed forces, the agency confirmed. RTX Corporation, based in Tucson, Arizona, is the principal contractor. There are no additional US personnel deployments linked to the AMRAAM deal arrives at a time when Turkey is actively upgrading its air defence posture. The missiles, known for their extended range and precision, will enhance Ankara's ability to secure its airspace and defend US personnel stationed on its soil.'This proposed sale will provide Türkiye with a critical air defense capability to assist in defending its homeland and U.S. personnel stationed there,' DSCA stated. The agency also stressed that this sale would not disrupt the military balance in the sale complements earlier acquisitions. Notably, Turkey had bought the Russian-made S-400 missile system in 2019, a move that drew ire from the US and led to sanctions under CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). That decision also resulted in Turkey's expulsion from the US-led F-35 fighter jet sharp differences over Syria and Russia, military cooperation between the US and Turkey has continued. For decades, Turkey has relied heavily on US defence exports. It has acquired a large fleet of F-16 fighter jets, along with older F-4 Phantoms and American helicopters like the Black Hawk and land and sea, Turkish forces also use US-origin equipment, including M60 Patton tanks, M113 armoured vehicles, and Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates. In the air, American missiles such as Sidewinder and Maverick support Turkish combat US has also supplied Turkey with C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and KC-135 refuelling tankers. While Ankara has made strides in drone development, it earlier depended on US-made surveillance decision to procure the Russian S-400 triggered a diplomatic standoff with Washington. As a result, the US imposed CAATSA sanctions and suspended Turkey from the F-35 programme. Still, Ankara has not backed down on the S-400 Recep Tayyip Erdoğan remains hopeful of reviving discussions. Ankara seeks to have the sanctions eased so it can resume talks over acquiring F-35s. Turkish officials believe that resolving this dispute could unlock wider defence collaboration between the two DSCA's green light for the AMRAAM sale may be a sign of thawing development coincides with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to Turkey for a NATO foreign ministers' meeting. Rubio is also expected to join possible Russia-Ukraine ceasefire talks in sale could also shape Turkey's role in stabilising conflict zones. The Pentagon is reportedly drawing down troops in Syria, while Turkey has offered thousands of its own soldiers for regional is also willing to monitor potential Black Sea ceasefires, aligning with broader US interests in the has not limited its engagement with the US to defence. It is considering increased imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and is negotiating with Boeing for aircraft purchases. These moves are part of a larger realignment that may further bind Ankara and tensions remain. President Erdoğan has criticised the US over its support for Kurdish forces in Syria and over its stance on the Palestinian issue. Nonetheless, the sale suggests that both countries are willing to isolate defence cooperation from political Congress signs off on the sale, it would mark another chapter in the long and complex defence relationship between the US and Turkey. With regional security challenges intensifying and NATO cooperation under pressure, the AMRAAM deal could be a step toward stabilising a key it leads to a broader resolution over the S-400 fallout remains to be seen. But for now, Ankara is rearming—and Washington is willing to sell.
The Print
15-05-2025
- Business
- The Print
US okays $304 mn missile sale to Turkey. Most advanced AMRAAM variant, short-range missile on offer
Under the proposed deal, the first package, valued at approximately $225 million, includes 53 AIM-120C-8 missiles and six guidance sections, along with support equipment, containers, Common Munitions Built-in-Test Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE), spare parts, classified software, and technical documentation. In a statement Wednesday, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed that the required certification had been submitted to the US Congress, formally initiating the process. New Delhi: The United States has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Turkey for the AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) along with AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles, in a deal valued at an estimated $304 million. The announcement comes at a time of heightened concern in India over Turkey's expanding military cooperation with Pakistan. On the same day, the US state department also approved a separate sale of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles to Turkey, valued at $79.1 million. This deal includes 60 all-up-round missiles and 11 tactical guidance units, as well as associated support items. In reference to the sale, the US described Turkey as a NATO ally and 'a force for political and economic stability in Europe'. The DSCA said the proposed transfer would enhance Turkey's air defence capabilities and help protect both its own territory and US personnel stationed there. The principal contractor for the sale is RTX Corporation, formerly Raytheon Technologies, based in Tucson, Arizona. No offset agreements have been proposed in the current package. The AIM-120C-8 is the most advanced variant in the AMRAAM family and is built for beyond-visual-range engagements. It is powered by a solid-fuel rocket motor that propels it to speeds exceeding Mach 4 (roughly 4,900 km) per hour, and it can strike targets at ranges of up to 180 km, significantly surpassing earlier models. Its advanced guidance system combines active radar, inertial navigation, and GPS corrections, making it a formidable fire-and-forget weapon. Compatible with a wide range of platforms, including the US-made F-15, F-16, F-22, and F-35 fighter jets, it represents a substantial upgrade in Turkey's air-to-air missile inventory. Turkey operates the second-largest fleet of F-16s in NATO, with approximately 270 F-16 C/D fighter aircraft, making it a strategic fit for this system. On the other hand, the AIM-9X is a short-range, infrared-guided missile with a range up to 18 km. It is designed for high agility and off-boresight targeting, ideal for close-combat scenarios—complementing the AMRAAM capabilities. Also Read: Controversial Pakistani firm BSI removed as partner from US satellite company's website Amid Indian concerns The announcement follows a flare-up between India and Pakistan last week, with India saying Pakistan used '300-400' Turkish drones to infiltrate Indian air space. Preliminary forensic assessments suggest the drones were Songar models produced by Turkish defence firm Asisguard. Officials confirmed that wreckage from the downed drones was undergoing further investigation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it had taken note of both, the diplomatic and military support, Turkey provided to Pakistan in the lead-up to and during Operation Sindoor. Tensions were further inflamed when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated his support for Pakistan Wednesday. He lauded Pakistan's 'patient, sensible and moderate attitude'. 'We openly declared our support for the brotherly people of Pakistan while also making intense efforts to de-escalate tensions that had reached dangerous levels,' Turkish media quoted him as saying. Meanwhile, Pakistan continues to operate older AIM-120C-5 missiles, also supplied by the US, with an estimated range of 100 km. This AMRAAM was used by Pakistan in retaliation to India's 2019 air strikes on terrorist training camps in Balakot, and is compatible with its F-16 fleet. In addition, Pakistan is reportedly collaborating with China to develop next-generation beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAMs). Pakistan used the Chinese-origin PL-15 BVRAAM in its attack following Operation Sindoor. At a press briefing Monday, Air Marshal A.K. Bharti, director general air operations of the IAF, said that the missile missed its target, presenting visuals of the wreckage. 'Shown on the screen is a probable enemy PL-15 missile of Chinese origin. This missile has missed its target and you can see pieces that are available with us now.' India has accelerated its own missile development initiatives under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The Astra Mk1 BVRAAM, developed by the DRDO's Hyderabad-based laboratory and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited, is capable of engaging targets at speeds up to Mach 1.4 and ranges of up to 110 km. Work is also underway on two advanced variants, the Astra Mk2 and Mk3, that are expected to significantly enhance the Indian Air Force (IAF)'s air combat capabilities. Additionally, India has enhanced its air combat capabilities with the Meteor and MICA missile systems integrated into its Rafale fighter jets. The Meteor, developed by European MBDA, is also a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) that employs a solid-fueled ramjet motor, allowing it to maintain high speeds over extended distances. With an estimated range exceeding 200 km and a substantial no-escape zone of approximately 60 km, the Meteor provides the IAF with a significant advantage in engaging adversaries before they can respond effectively . Complementing the Meteor, the MICA missile system offers versatility with its two variants—the MICA RF, utilising active radar homing, and the MICA IR, employing infrared guidance. Both variants are capable of engaging targets at ranges up to 80 km and are designed for both beyond-visual-range and close-combat scenarios. The MICA's agility is enhanced by its thrust-vectoring motor and its fire-and-forget capability allows pilots to engage multiple targets simultaneously without the need for continuous guidance. (Edited by Sanya Mathur) Also Read: From Pechora to S-400, Russian air defence systems India used to repel Pakistan's aerial incursions
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Business Standard
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Turkiye to buy Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles from US for $225M
This purchase from the US is expected to further boost the air defence system of Turkiye, which is already investing heavily to make its military stronger In addition to air force assets, Turkiye's naval and land forces also rely significantly on US-origin equipment. New Delhi In a major weapons purchase deal, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency has approved the possible sale of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles to the Republic of Turkiye at an estimated cost of $225 million. This includes not just the missiles but also a support package covering logistics and program assistance, according to an official statement by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on Wednesday. The agency said it has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on May 14. The development came after NATO ally Turkiye requested to buy 53 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and six AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM guidance sections. 'This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security of the US by improving the security of a NATO ally that continues to be a force for political and economic stability in Europe,' said the DSCA statement. The DSCA further detailed that these items will also be included in weapons sale deal: AMRAAM containers and support equipment; Common Munitions Built-in-Test (BIT) Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE); spare parts, consumables and accessories, repair and return support; weapons system support and software; classified software delivery and support; classified publications and technical documentation; transportation support; studies and surveys; US Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and programme support. How will this strengthen Turkiye's air defense capabilities? This purchase is expected to strengthen Turkiye's air defense, which has been a key area of investment in its military modernisation efforts. Like India, Turkiye also bought an S-400 air defence system from Russia in 2019, for which the US was not happy at that time. The S-400 is considered one of the most sophisticated air defence systems in today's time. 'This proposed sale will provide Turkiye with a critical air defense capability to assist in defending its homeland and US personnel stationed there. Turkiye will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces,' the DSCA mentioned. It emphasised that the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. What does the US-Turkiye arms trade history look like? Historically, Turkiye and the US have criticised each other on various issues from time to time. More importantly, regarding the issue of an independent Palestinian state, Turkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has openly blamed the US on several occasions for supporting Israel, which is further deepening the ongoing crisis. Interestingly, this has not affected US-Turkiye relations, and Turkiye continues to purchase weapons from the US. Turkiye has bought many weapons and military systems from the US over the years as part of their NATO partnership. These include a large number of F-16 fighter jets, which form the backbone of the Turkish Air Force. Turkiye also used older US planes like the F-4 Phantom and helicopters such as the Black Hawk and Chinook. They were once part of the F-35 stealth jet program, but the US removed Turkiye from the project in 2019 after it bought a Russian air defense system S-400. What other US military systems has Turkiye acquired? In addition to air force assets, Turkiye's naval and land forces also rely significantly on US-origin equipment: Navy: Ships like the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates Army: Tanks such as the M60 Patton, armored vehicles like the M113, and artillery systems Missiles: Beyond AMRAAM, also Sidewinder and Maverick for jets and helicopters Moreover, the US has contributed to Turkiye's defense posture through military aid, training, and tech-sharing, with transport planes like the C-130 Hercules and KC-135 tankers for refuelling. While Turkiye now builds many of its own drones, it earlier worked with the US on surveillance UAVs. Relations between the two countries have seen ups and downs, especially after 2019, but defense ties still continue through sales, upgrades, and shared NATO operations.
Al Manar
03-05-2025
- Business
- Al Manar
US Approves $3.5 billion Missile Sale to Saudi Arabia Ahead of Trump Visit
The United States has given initial approval to sell $3.5 billion worth of air-to-air missiles for Saudi Arabia's fighter jets, the latest proposed arms deal for the region ahead of President Donald Trump's planned trip to the region later this month. The sale, announced early Saturday, likely will be one of several heralded by Trump on his visit to the kingdom. 'This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that contributes to political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region,' the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $3.5 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, which includes 1,000 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles, 50 guidance sections, and related support. — OSINTWarfare (@OSINTWarfare) May 3, 2025 The agency notified Congress of the possible sale on Friday. Despite approval by the State Department, the notification does not indicate that a contract has been signed or that negotiations have concluded. The arms sale involves 1,000 AIM-120C-8 advanced medium range air-to-air missiles, guidance sections and other technical support. The missiles will be built by RTX Corp of Tucson, Ariz. The Royal Saudi Air Force has the world's second-largest fleet of F-15 fighter jets after the US. Saudi Arabia has already said it wants to invest $600 billion in the United States over the next four years, likely as a way to woo Trump to again pick the kingdom for his first formal trip as president. Trump traveled to Italy briefly for Pope Francis' funeral.
Yahoo
02-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
US approves sale of 20 US F-16 fighter jets to Philippines as Washington tightens key Asian alliance
The United States has approved the potential sale of 20 F-16 fighter jets to Manila, giving the key US ally in the Indo-Pacific a major upgrade to its air force just days after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth vowed to counter 'China's aggression.' The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the proposed sale of the F-16s and related equipment, worth an estimated $5.58 billion, in a statement on Tuesday. 'This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner that continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in Southeast Asia,' DSCA said. The announcement comes less than a week after Hegseth visited the Philippines, his first trip to Asia as defense chief, and said Washington will enhance its military alliance with Manila as it aims to 'reestablish deterrence' to counter 'China's aggression' in the Indo-Pacific region. On Wednesday, China cautioned Manila on the deal. 'Any defense and security cooperation that the Philippines engages in with other countries should not target or harm the interests of any third party, nor should it threaten regional peace and security or escalate tensions in the region,' Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said. 'As for who is fueling the flames, who is provoking military confrontation, and who is turning Asia into a powder keg, we believe that regional countries can see the situation clearly.' The Philippines has been on the front lines of China's increasingly aggressive posture in Asia. Beijing seeks to assert its claim over the bulk of the South China Sea, despite an international ruling denying its sovereignty over the waterway. Hegseth said Friday the US would deploy additional advanced military capabilities to the US ally for joint training, enhance interoperability for 'high end operations' and prioritize defense industrial cooperation. In its statement, DSCA said Manila had requested to buy 16 F-16Cs – single-seat, single-engine fighter jets – and four F-16Ds, dual-seat jets that are usually used for training purposes. The F-16s are the block 70/72 newest variant of the workhorse military warplane, which entered service with the US Air Force in the late 1970s. Manufacturer Lockheed Martin says the new F-16s are the world's most advanced fourth-generation fighter, touting a 'structural service life' of more than 12,000 hours. The F-16s, along with advanced avionics, radar and weaponry included in the deal, are a significant upgrade to the Philippine Air Force's fighter fleet. Currently, it has only 12 South Korean-made FA-50 jets, a lighter ground attack and fighter jet. The F-16s have a top speed of more than 1,500 miles per hour, Lockheed Martin says, about 350 mph faster than the FA-50. Speaking alongside Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro on Friday, Hegseth called the US-Philippine relationship an 'ironclad alliance, particularly in the face of Communist China's aggression in the region.' The Trump administration has vowed to 'truly prioritize a shift' to the Indo-Pacific, Hegseth said, with the 'recognition that for the 21st century to be a free century, America needs to stand alongside our allies and partners shoulder to shoulder.' The American military presence in Asia is seen by allies as a critical counterbalance in a fractious region where China has been rapidly expanding its military might and a belligerent North Korea has been empowered by closer ties with Russia. Trump has repeatedly questioned the structure of US military alliances and whether the US was getting enough out of such partnerships and basing arrangements, including those in Asia where tens of thousands of troops are stationed in sprawling bases in Japan and South Korea.
