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The Canadian government is set to acquire 264 AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles from the American defense contractor Raytheon Corporation [RTX]. This purchase has received the green light from Washington, with the Defense Security Cooperation Agency [DSCA] having already notified Congress. Valued at approximately $264 million, this deal includes 48 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II+ tactical missiles and 120 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles.
To give you some context, the AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II is a cutting-edge iteration of the AIM-9 Sidewinder, a short-range, air-to-air missile employed by the United States and its allies. This newer version boasts multiple technological enhancements over previous models, making it one of the most advanced infrared-guided missiles available today.
Canada has been a consistent user of the AIM-9 tactical missile series. This new acquisition will bolster the combat capabilities of the Royal Canadian Air Force. These missiles are slated to enhance the armament of the Canadian CF-18 Hornet fleet, of which Ottawa currently operates 85 active fighters. Additionally, the AIM-9s will also equip Canada’s forthcoming F-35A Lightning IIs, with the first four jets expected to be delivered within the next 24 months.
Besides ordering AIM-9X combat missiles, Canada is also investing in training missiles. Specifically, this includes 48 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II air training missiles and 48 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II special air training missiles. Altogether, Ottawa’s total order for AIM-9X missiles reaches 264 units.
This proposed sale is set to enhance U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by boosting the military capabilities of a key NATO ally. As stated in the announcement from DSCA, Canada’s strengthened military capability plays a significant role in ensuring political stability and economic progress while also contributing to various military, peacekeeping, and humanitarian operations worldwide.
Canada primarily utilizes its current stock of AIM-9 tactical missiles during military exercises with NATO allies, often involving the participation of the CF-18 Hornet. Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, based on the latest available information, there is no confirmed public data or official statement that indicates Canada has donated AIM-9 missiles to Ukraine.
The latest order of AIM-9 tactical missiles from Canada was announced in 2023. Canada has ordered a total of 38 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles. The total value of this order is approximately $19 million. This includes not only the missiles themselves but also associated equipment, training, and logistical support to ensure effective deployment and integration into Canada’s existing defense systems.
The AIM-9X Sidewinder is a short-range, air-to-air missile developed by Raytheon. It is a part of the Sidewinder family, which has been a staple in the US military’s arsenal since the 1950s. The AIM-9X is known for its agility and advanced targeting capabilities, making it a formidable weapon in dogfights and other aerial combat scenarios.
In terms of dimensions, the AIM-9X Sidewinder is approximately 9.5 feet [2.87 meters] in length and has a diameter of about 5 inches [12.7 centimeters]. The missile weighs around 188 pounds [85 kilograms], making it relatively lightweight and easy to deploy from various aircraft platforms.
The propulsion system of the AIM-9X Sidewinder is a solid-fuel rocket motor. This type of propulsion provides the missile with the necessary thrust to reach high speeds and engage targets effectively. The solid-fuel rocket motor is known for its reliability and quick ignition, which is crucial in fast-paced aerial combat.
Targeting for the AIM-9X Sidewinder is achieved through an advanced infrared homing system. This system allows the missile to lock onto the heat signature of enemy aircraft, providing a high degree of accuracy. The missile also features a helmet-mounted cueing system, enabling pilots to target enemy aircraft simply by looking at them, significantly enhancing situational awareness and engagement speed.
The warhead of the AIM-9X Sidewinder is a high-explosive, annular blast fragmentation type. This warhead is designed to maximize damage upon detonation, increasing the likelihood of destroying or severely damaging the target aircraft. The annular blast fragmentation design ensures that shrapnel is dispersed in a wide pattern, enhancing the missile’s lethality.
The AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II and Block II+ are both advanced versions of the original AIM-9X. The Block II variant includes significant upgrades such as a redesigned guidance unit, improved infrared counter-countermeasures, and a lock-on-after-launch capability. These enhancements allow the missile to engage targets more effectively, even in challenging environments.
The AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II+ builds upon the improvements of the Block II variant. One of the key differences is the integration of a datalink, which allows for mid-course updates and increased flexibility in targeting. This datalink capability enables the missile to receive real-time information from the launching aircraft or other sources, improving its accuracy and adaptability during flight.
BULGARIAN MILITARY