Poland secures 232 AIM‑9X missiles; deliveries set for 2028
Deputy Minister of Defence Paweł Bejda announced on the X platform that eight months after receiving approval from the U.S. Congress, Poland has completed the purchase of 232 AIM-9X missiles. This equipment is valuable for current and future combat aircraft. It is known when the deliveries will begin.
Poland is investing in its military's current and upcoming combat aircraft. Paweł Bejda announced on Friday, November 29, that the Armament Agency signed an agreement for approximately CAD 245 million. A few months after obtaining approval, 232 AIM-9X missiles was purchased. The Deputy Minister states that deliveries will begin in 2028.
AIM-9X missiles for Poland
According to Bejda, Poland is acquiring the AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles, which are short-range air-to-air weapons produced by the American company Raytheon. This is the latest generation of AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.
The AIM-9X is designed for combat operations during both day and night. Thrust vectoring nozzles increase missile maneuverability. A single missile is roughly 3 metres long, with a diameter of almost 13 centimetres and a wingspan of 43 centimetres. The total weight of the AIM-9X is about 85 kilograms.
It should be noted that this weapon is carried by F-16 aircraft in Poland. The Polish air force uses its F-16 fighters, equipped with advanced avionics systems, significantly enhancing their effectiveness in combat operations. One of the key components of this technology is the AN/APG-68 radar. It enables detection and tracking of targets from long distances, providing a significant advantage during operations.
The LANTIRN (Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night) system also allows for precise navigation and target attacks, even during nighttime and adverse weather conditions. These advanced technologies greatly expand the combat capabilities of Polish F-16s, enabling precise attacks in various, often challenging, operational situations.
