The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Singapore involving AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment. The deal is valued at an estimated $133 million and aims to bolster the security and defense capabilities of Singapore, a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. Singapore’s request includes the purchase of 54 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles, two guidance sections, spare control section parts, missile containers, and support equipment. Additional items such as the Common Munitions Built-In-Test (BIT)/Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE), ADU-89/E Adapter Group Computer Test Set, and spare parts are also part of the package. The primary contractor for this sale will be RTX Corporation, based in Tucson, Arizona.
This proposed arms sale is designed to enhance Singapore’s training and combat readiness, while supporting U.S. foreign policy goals in the region. The U.S. has highlighted that this sale will strengthen a vital partner that contributes to political stability and economic progress in Asia. Importantly, the transfer of these advanced missiles will ensure Singapore remains interoperable with U.S. and coalition forces, improving its defensive posture without disrupting the military balance in the Indo-Pacific region. Singapore is expected to integrate these systems seamlessly into its armed forces, further enhancing its capacity for both training and operational missions. The sale serves to increase Singapore’s deterrence capabilities while contributing to broader regional stability.
The AIM-120 AMRAAM is a versatile air-to-air missile renowned for its all-weather, beyond-visual-range capability. It has been successfully employed in numerous conflicts, including those over Iraq, Bosnia, Kosovo, India, and Syria, with a track record of 16 confirmed air-to-air kills. First delivered in 1996, the AIM-120C variant has seen continuous upgrades to enhance its operational effectiveness. The AIM-120C-8 is the latest iteration of the AMRAAM, designed specifically for international customers. It boasts several advanced features, including a 15-upgraded circuit card guidance system and the ability to incorporate future software improvements. With a range of 160 kilometers and a speed of Mach 4, the missile provides a significantly improved “no-escape” envelope and high-angle off-boresight capabilities. While it shares similarities with the earlier AIM-120C-7 variant, the AIM-120C-8 has integrated GPS, an enhanced datalink, and new software upgrades, offering superior performance.
The AMRAAM program improves the aerial combat capabilities of U.S. and allied aircraft to meet current and future threat of enemy air-to-air weapons. AMRAAM is compatible with the Air Force F-15, F-16, F-22 and developmental F-35 and Navy F/A-18 C-F. The backbone of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is formed by the Block 52/52+ F-16 Fighting Falcons and Boeing F-15SG Strike Eagles. These are armed with US-supplied AIM-120C AMRAAM missiles. In 2008 there were announcements of new or additional sales to Singapore. The sale of the AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles to Singapore not only reinforces the nation’s defense infrastructure but also strengthens U.S. alliances in the Indo-Pacific. It is expected to maintain the balance of military power in the Indo-Pacific region without provoking significant regional shifts. By ensuring that Singapore maintains a modern and interoperable military, the sale contributes to both regional stability and the deterrence of potential threats.
