U.S. greenlights missile delivery to bolster Poland’s air defenses
Poland has requested to purchase 400 AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles from the American government, and approval has been granted. We detail what exactly Poland will receive.
On 29 April 2025, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the approval for the potential sale to Poland, valued at a maximum of $1.33 billion (£998 million), consisting of 400 AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles, 16 AIM-120D-3 guidance sections, a single M-Core module, and a test AIM-120 AMRAAM missile. This package also includes logistical support such as spare parts, technical assistance, and software.
This decision, communicated to Congress by the DSCA, underscores the necessity of bolstering Poland's defensive capabilities, emphasising its role as a key NATO ally on the eastern flank.
AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM — The latest version currently forming the backbone of NATO airpower
The AIM-120D-3 is the newest version of the AMRAAM missiles, capable of intercepting targets at distances up to 110 miles. These missiles are compatible with various fighter jets, including the F-16 and F-35, as well as ground defence systems like NASAMS. In Poland, they will initially be deployed with F-16C/D Block 52+ fighters and, in the future, with F-35A aircraft, whose deliveries are set to begin in 2026.
The AIM-120D-3 version, compared to its predecessors, offers enhanced navigation, connectivity, and resistance to electronic countermeasures. With its two-way data link and capability to reach speeds close to Mach 4, these missiles are designed to effectively engage manoeuvring targets at extended ranges.
Missiles from the AIM-120 AMRAAM family utilise a "fire and forget" design, meaning they are equipped with an advanced guidance system featuring an active radar seeker. Consequently, these missiles have their own onboard radar emitter and do not depend on radar emissions from the launching aircraft, as was the case with earlier models.
It is worth noting, however, that due to their compact size, the radar range of the missile is likely limited to approximately 12-19 miles. Until a target is detected, the missile navigates using GPS and INS, with potential support from target position updates via a communication link from the aircraft.
