U.S. weapons manufacturer Raytheon announced on Wednesday that it is ramping up production of its widely used AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missile, with plans to deliver 2,500 units annually.
The production boost is driven by a $1.1 billion contract awarded by the U.S. Navy. According to Raytheon, the deal marks the largest single contract ever awarded in the Sidewinder program’s decades-long history. In 2024, the company produced 1,644 units.
“This award represents a historic milestone for the AIM-9X program, further emphasizing its importance to the U.S. and partnered nations,” Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon said.
The contract covers advanced variants of the missile, including 1,756 AIM-9X-4 Block II tactical missiles and 242 AIM-9X-5 Block II+ missiles.
Additional components in the order include 187 CATM-9X training rounds, 30 MPTM training missiles, 13 inert NATM-9X rounds, six flight test missiles, and various spare parts and conversion kits.
The AIM-9X is the U.S. military’s most advanced infrared-tracking, short-range missile and is deployed in both air-to-air and surface-to-air roles.
It is integrated into modern aircraft and air defense systems, including the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System. Though traditionally seen as an air-launched weapon, it is also compatible with naval vessels, ground systems, and rotary-wing platforms such as the Bell AH-1Z Viper used by the U.S. Marine Corps.
Raytheon’s Sidewinder missile is currently used by more than 30 countries.
Recent sales include a $79.1 million order from Turkey for 60 missiles and a $370.9 million potential sale to Norway for up to 300 missiles. Canada was approved in August 2024 for a $264.6 million package, and Romania is expected to receive deliveries to support its F-16 fleet.
Deliveries under the new contract are scheduled to be completed by October 2028, according to reports.
