Washington, DC, June 26 - The United States has authorized a significant Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Italy, valued at an estimated $211 million, for the provision of advanced AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) to equip the Italian Air Force’s fleet of Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters. This transaction, approved by the U.S. State Department and notified to Congress on June 16, 2025, by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), underscores the deepening defense cooperation between the United States and Italy, a key NATO ally. The sale includes 30 AIM-120D-3 missiles, 40 AIM-120C-8 missiles, and two AIM-120C-7 guidance sections, alongside a comprehensive support package that encompasses spare parts, containers, software, technical documentation, training equipment, and logistical services. RTX Corporation, based in Tucson, Arizona, serves as the principal contractor for this deal, ensuring the delivery of cutting-edge weaponry to enhance Italy’s air combat capabilities.
.gif)
The AIM-120 AMRAAM is a cornerstone of modern air-to-air combat, renowned for its all-weather, day-and-night operational capability and active radar guidance, which allows it to function as a fire-and-forget weapon. The AIM-120D-3, the most advanced variant included in this sale, is a highly sophisticated missile currently deployed only by the U.S. Air Force and select allied nations. It features enhanced range, improved navigation and guidance systems, and superior resistance to electronic countermeasures compared to its predecessor, the AIM-120C-8, which is itself a modern export-approved variant with upgraded high off-boresight capabilities. These advancements enable the missiles to engage targets at extended ranges, reportedly exceeding 150 kilometers, and provide greater precision in complex electronic warfare environments. The Italian Air Force’s F-35s, which include both the conventional takeoff and landing F-35A and the short takeoff and vertical landing F-35B variants, will benefit significantly from these missiles, as they can be carried internally to preserve the aircraft’s stealth profile.
This acquisition builds on Italy’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force, particularly through the integration of fifth-generation F-35 fighters, which are designed for air superiority, strike missions, and electronic warfare. The Italian Air Force already operates AMRAAMs, ensuring seamless integration of the new systems into its existing inventory. The sale complements previous FMS agreements in 2024, including a $69.3 million deal for 12 AIM-120C-8 missiles and another for AIM-9X Block II+ Sidewinder missiles, as well as GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bombs. These acquisitions reflect Italy’s commitment to maintaining a robust and interoperable air defense capability within NATO, particularly in response to heightened regional tensions and the need to counter advanced threats. The DSCA has stated that this sale will not disrupt the military balance in the region, emphasizing its role in strengthening a key ally’s defense posture.
The $211 million package also includes extensive support elements, such as classified and unclassified software, engineering services, and personnel training, which will enhance the Italian Air Force’s operational readiness. Italy’s defense budget, projected at $30.8 billion in 2024, supports such modernization efforts, driven by the need to replace aging platforms and maintain technological superiority. The inclusion of the AIM-120D-3, reserved for select U.S. allies, highlights the strategic trust placed in Italy as a partner in NATO and underscores the importance of joint operational capabilities in addressing current and future threats. This sale not only bolsters Italy’s air-to-air combat capabilities but also reinforces the broader U.S.-NATO framework for collective defense, ensuring interoperability and readiness in an increasingly complex global security environment.