The American defense company RTX Corporation plans to relocate production of the AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missile to Europe. This move would allow manufacturing facilities in the United States to concentrate on the newest AIM-120D-3 version.
Company representatives shared this information with analyst Jeff21461 during the BEDEX 2026 defense exhibition. According to them, negotiations are already underway with at least 30 Belgian companies to establish a supply chain for components.
Read more: Norway Sends More Missiles to Sustain Ukraine's NASAMS Air Defense Network
When asked, an RTX spokesperson told me that the company wants to fully move its AIM-120C8 production line to Europe so that the US facility can focus on the D3 variant. To this end the company is speaking to at least 30 companies in Belgium to begin building out the… pic.twitter.com/2UntixLlaB
— Jeff2146 (@Jeff21461) March 14, 2026
From the perspective of Defense Express, this approach appears logical because it would effectively create parallel missile production in Europe. Such manufacturing would most likely focus on European demand, while U.S. facilities concentrate on producing the most advanced missile variant.
It is worth recalling that in July 2025, the Belgian company FN Herstal reached an agreement with RTX on the localization of AIM-120 missile production. The plan reportedly includes not only final assembly but also the manufacturing of certain components.
The AIM-120C-8 differs from the latest AIM-120D-3 primarily in its propulsion system and onboard electronics. However, the missile continues to be procured both for use by fighter aircraft and for the Norwegian-developed NASAMS air defense system.
Recently, Raytheon, which is part of RTX, signed several framework agreements aimed at increasing missile production. In addition to systems such as the Patriot air defense system, the Tomahawk cruise missile, and the SM-6 missile, the agreements also include the AIM-120 family. Annual production of these missiles is expected to reach at least 1,900 units.
However, implementing such plans faces several challenges,including supply chain constraints. Partial localization of production among partner countries could help address these issues, making parallel production lines in Europe a practical solution.
In addition to Belgium and other European countries, Ukraine could also benefit from such a project. The Ukrainian Defense Forces use AIM-120 missiles both on F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets and in NASAMS air defense system batteries.
At the same time, shortages of these missiles remain a persistent challenge for Ukraine as it continues to repel russian aerial attacks. However, it should be noted that it will take time before any new European production lines reach full capacity.
Read more: Tomahawks for Ukraine: Real Capability Shift or Another Round of Washington Rhetoric?
