Extended-Range Missiles For Norway In $405 Million Deal

Norway is seeking to enhance its ground-based air defence systems with the purchase of 100 extended-range RTX missiles.

According to a press release on the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) website, the U.S. State Department has approved the sale of the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles–Extended Range (AMRAAM-ER) missiles. While designed as an air-to-air weapon, the projectiles can also be fired by adapted ground systems.

The DSCA statement noted the proposed purchase would be "used for ground-based air defense in the Norwegian Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS)."

The AMRAAM-ER missile is an upgraded version of the RTX projectile. It's made up of an Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile rocket motor, which has been twinned with a two-stage AMRAAM guidance head, extending its range to about 30 miles as well as increasing its altitude ceiling. The upgrades make it more effective in successfully prosecuting fast-flying and hard-manoeuvring targets.

As per the DSCA statement, the potential deal's estimated total cost is $405 million and also includes four AIM-120C-8 guidance sections, AMRAAM containers and support equipment; spare parts, and other related elements of logistics and program support.

It noted: "This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe."

Norway will use the more capable new missiles to supplement and replace its existing Air Intercept Missile 120B (AIM-120B) AMRAAMs.

You can read full details of the proposed sale on the DSCA website