Arms manufacturer considering building Amraam missiles in Netherlands
The Netherlands plans to study the possibility of producing American air defense missiles in 2026, after receiving U.S. approval for a feasibility study last week, the Dutch Ministry of Defense announced Monday.
The study will examine how the Dutch defense industry could contribute to the production, assembly, and maintenance of AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (Amraam).
Amraam missiles are advanced air defense weapons designed to counter medium-range aerial threats, including manned and unmanned aircraft and cruise missiles. They are used to defend F-35 fighter jets and ground-based air and missile systems.
The Netherlands aims to work with the United States and other NATO countries to support the "production and faster delivery of Amraams." The feasibility study will be carried out by Raytheon, the U.S. manufacturer of Amraam missiles
“This strategic bilateral cooperation marks a first step in Amraam co-production with a European NATO partner,” the ministry said.
“It deepens transatlantic industrial defense collaboration and addresses production shortages. Scaling up production is essential to continue supporting Ukraine and defending NATO territory. A proactive international approach to co-production aligns with the Defense Strategy for Industry and Innovation,” the ministry added.
