PARIS — Raytheon, a major American defense contractor, is set to investigate the potential for producing its AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles in the Netherlands, following approval from the United States for a feasibility study, according to an announcement by the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
The upcoming study will evaluate the role that Dutch industries could play in the manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance of the AIM-120 Amraam, as detailed in a statement issued by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence late Monday.
This initiative marks the beginning of collaborative efforts to potentially co-produce the AIM-120 missile with a European NATO ally, signaling a significant step in strengthening trans-Atlantic defense-industrial ties and addressing production deficits, the Ministry noted.
The Ministry further explained that increasing production capabilities is crucial for continuing support to Ukraine and safeguarding the NATO treaty area. Through this collaboration, the Netherlands aims to boost the production and expedited delivery of Amraams in partnership with the U.S. and other NATO members.
This proactive stance on international cooperation aligns with the Dutch defense strategy, which emphasizes industrial and innovative growth within the sector. Both Raytheon and the Dutch Ministry of Defence have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the specifics of the feasibility study or the prospects for joint production.
The Royal Netherlands Air Force already employs the Raytheon Amraam missile, which is fitted onto the nation’s F-35 fighter jets and is also integrated into Kongsberg’s NASAMS ground-based medium-range air-defense system, which the Dutch government has committed to purchasing.
Though the Netherlands does not currently produce tactical missiles, it houses several aerospace and defense companies capable of providing high-tech components or engineering services, such as GKN Aerospace and Thales Nederland.
Similarly, Belgium, which also operates F-35 jets and plans to acquire NASAMS systems, has been in talks with Raytheon’s parent company RTX about manufacturing Amraam missiles. However, according to a report by local broadcaster VRT in July, no definitive agreement has been reached yet, as stated by Belgian arms manufacturer FN Herstal.
In September, the U.S. State Department authorized a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Netherlands for up to 232 AIM-120C-8 missiles, valued at approximately $570 million. Both Poland and Germany have also been approved this year for the purchase of Amraam missiles under the Foreign Military Sales program.
Recently, the AIM-120 missile was reportedly utilized in September to intercept Russian drones that entered Polish airspace. Dutch F-35s were involved in the interception efforts, and Poland also lists the missile among its military assets.
Raytheon has been expanding its manufacturing partnerships in Europe, including a joint venture with the pan-European missile manufacturer MBDA to produce munitions for the Patriot air-defense system in Germany. In August, Raytheon also signed a memorandum of understanding with Diehl Defence for the joint production of components for the Stinger short-range air-defense missile in Europe.
The American defense firm continues to highlight its European connections as the European Union encourages its member states to allocate more of their defense spending within the 27-nation bloc.
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Jamal Peterson reports on defense, aerospace, and tech policy. With a military background and a strategic mind, he dissects complex subjects with clarity, offering readers sharp, reliable insights.
