The initiative follows a NATO summit in Turkey, where the defense contractor committed to conducting feasibility studies aimed at qualifying new European suppliers. By establishing this coproduction footprint, the alliance intends to accelerate delivery timelines and bolster the resilience of defense stockpiles that have been stretched thin by recent geopolitical volatility.

Michael Duffey, the U.S. Defense Department’s under secretary for acquisition and sustainment, noted that expanding capacity is vital to fulfilling the urgent air defense requirements of both the U.S. and its partners. The AMRAAM has become a frontline asset in recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and regional escalations involving Israel and Iran, where it serves as a primary defense against drone swarms. As usage intensifies, the collaboration is expected to grow, with additional nations likely to join the program to meet the escalating global need for these interceptors.