Poland bolsters defense: Buys 232 AIM‑9X missiles for F‑16s

Poland is investing in its current and upcoming combat aircraft for the military. On Friday, November 29, Minister Paweł Bejda noted that the Armament Agency signed an agreement worth approximately $175 million. A few months after getting the necessary approvals, the acquisition of 232 AIM-9X missiles was finalized. The Deputy Minister stated that deliveries are set to begin in 2028.

The AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles, which Poland is obtaining according to Bejda, are short-range air-to-air weapons manufactured by the American company Raytheon. These represent the latest generation of AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.

The AIM-9X is designed for combat operations during both day and night. The inclusion of thrust vectoring nozzles enhances the missile's maneuverability. A single missile is approximately 10 feet long, with a diameter of almost 5 inches and a wingspan of 17 inches. The total weight of the AIM-9X is around 187 pounds.

These missiles are deployed in Poland by F-16 aircraft. The Polish air force operates F-16 fighters equipped with advanced avionics systems, which greatly enhance the effectiveness of the aircraft during combat operations. A key component of this technology is the AN/APG-68 radar, which allows for long-distance target detection and tracking, providing a substantial operational advantage.

Additionally, the LANTIRN (Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night) system facilitates precise navigation and targeting, even in nighttime and adverse weather conditions. These advanced technologies significantly broaden the combat capabilities of Polish F-16s, enabling precise attacks in a variety of challenging operational scenarios.