RTX and NATO allies are looking to add European suppliers to the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) production chain as demand continues to grow.
Raytheon, an RTX business, is conducting feasibility studies to qualify additional suppliers for priority AMRAAM components, with participating NATO countries funding the work.
The initiative aims to increase manufacturing capacity, shorten delivery timelines, and reduce pressure on the existing supply chain supporting US and allied requirements.
More countries are expected to join the effort.
“This initiative underscores how industry and governments can work together to strengthen the transatlantic defense industrial base,” President of Air & Space Defense Systems at Raytheon Sam Deneke said.
The AMRAAM is used by more than 40 countries and can be launched from both combat aircraft and the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System.
AMRAAM Production Ramps Up
The European supplier initiative follows several recent moves to increase AMRAAM output as the US and its allies replenish inventories and place new orders.
In February, Raytheon signed a framework agreement with the US Department of Defense to raise annual AMRAAM production to at least 1,900 missiles.
In April, the US Air Force awarded Raytheon a $234.8-million contract to advance the AMRAAM Extended Range toward full-rate production.
The effort builds on a $972-million contract awarded in 2022 to modernize the AMRAAM family through software and hardware upgrades.
