U.S. Approves $1.33 Billion Missile Sale to Poland

The U.S. State Department has approved Poland’s request to purchase 400 AIM-120D-3 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) in a deal worth up to $1.33 billion. The approval marks a critical step in the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process and is now under review by the U.S. Congress. If approved, the intergovernmental agreement could be signed by the end of this year.

The missile package includes not only the 400 operational missiles, but also spare parts, a test missile, and logistical support. Additionally, the deal encompasses training and maintenance services to enhance Poland’s capability to operate the new missile systems. The missiles will primarily be deployed on Poland’s fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16C/D “Jastrząb” and F-35A “Husarz” combat aircraft, bolstering Poland’s ability to secure air superiority in the region.

The AIM-120D-3 missile variant offers an extended range of over 150 kilometers, significantly enhancing Poland's defensive and offensive air capabilities. The purchase forms part of Poland’s ongoing effort to modernize its military in response to growing security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

U.S. Foreign Policy and NATO Strengthening

The U.S. State Department stated that the sale aligns with its broader foreign policy goals of strengthening NATO allies, especially those in Eastern Europe, to ensure regional stability. The deal comes as Poland increases its defense spending, aiming to meet NATO's target of 2% of GDP, with plans to elevate it further to 5% by next year. This commitment is in line with U.S. President Donald Trump's long-standing push for NATO members to increase military spending.

“The proposed sale will improve Poland’s ability to meet current and future threats, contributing significantly to NATO’s defensive capabilities,” said the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The agency also noted that the deal would allow Poland to better protect both Polish and allied forces during transition or combat operations.

This sale follows similar actions by other NATO members. For example, Estonia recently announced additional defense expenditures to meet the 5% GDP target, driven by its proximity to Russia.

Australia Seeks AMRAAM Missiles in $1.04 Billion Deal

On the other side of the globe, the U.S. has also approved a potential missile sale to Australia. The Australian government has requested up to 200 AIM-120C-8 and 200 AIM-120D-3 AMRAAMs, valued at an estimated $1.04 billion. The deal includes spare parts, support equipment, and training services, with the missiles intended to enhance Australia's air defense capabilities.

The proposed sale to Australia, announced on April 9, 2025, is seen as a crucial step in strengthening U.S.-Australia defense ties, particularly in the strategic Indo-Pacific region. According to the DSCA, Australia’s acquisition of these advanced missiles will improve its ability to meet evolving security threats while ensuring the stability of the military balance in the region.

Both sales underscore the West’s increasing emphasis on strengthening defense capabilities in response to growing global security challenges, particularly in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. As NATO allies ramp up their military investments, these purchases reflect a broader trend of rearmament in response to geopolitical tensions.

Western Military Expansion Amid Global Uncertainty

These defense deals are part of a larger pattern of Western rearmament, with countries like Poland and Australia seeking advanced weaponry to bolster their military capabilities. As the global security environment becomes more unpredictable, NATO and allied nations are prioritizing defense spending and modernizing their forces to ensure they are prepared for emerging threats.