Armasuisse, the Swiss defence acquisition agency has accepted the latest batch of AIM-9X infrared-guided missiles from the US to be fitted to Swiss Air Force F/A-18 aircraft.
The AIM-9X Sidewinder infrared-guided missile is a latest-generation weapon. The missile homing head can detect the infrared energy emitted by the target even under harsh environmental conditions and with large off-boresight angles.
The Swiss F/A-18 combat platform is fitted with a radar-guided missile for medium distances (AMRAAM AIM-120), an infrared-guided missile for short distances (AIM-9X) and a fixed 20mm automatic cannon.
The number of AIM-9X missiles ordered is classified, although only a minimum number of missiles required to maintain key skills is being acquired under current security policy and available funds.
