Europe is set to become a stable source of ammunition for Ukraine, supporting both F-16 fighter jets and air defense systems. This can become possible with the launch of new production lines across the continent, Defense Express reports.
At the BEDEX 2026 arms exhibition, company representatives told observer Jeff21461 about these plans. American defense giant RTX plans to fully shift production of AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missiles to Europe.
US factories focus on the most advanced models: Europe rolls out parallel production
The United States intends to concentrate its domestic capacity on producing the newer AIM-120D-3 version. To meet allies’ needs, European lines will manufacture the C-8 variant. RTX is already negotiating with more than 30 Belgian companies to establish a full supply chain for components, including the complete production of complex parts.
Belgium emerges as a defense stronghold
The C-8 differs from the newer D-3 only in its engine and electronics but remains highly effective. These missiles are actively procured for aircraft and Norwegian NASAMS air defense systems, which help protect Ukrainian airspace. European production will reduce pressure on US stockpiles and eliminate chronic ammunition shortages.
Raytheon ramps up AIM-120 production to 1,900 units per year
Raytheon has signed agreements to significantly scale up arms production, prioritizing AIM-120 missiles alongside Patriot and Tomahawk systems. Localizing production in Europe will remove logistical obstacles and provide Ukraine with modern ammunition to defend against Russian attacks.
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine plans to test whether the European-made SAMP/T air defense system can intercept ballistic missiles later in 2026.
This comes as Kyiv searches for alternatives to the limited number of systems capable of countering Russia’s most dangerous weapon. SAMP/T is currently the only alternative for the US-designed Patriot air defense system in Europe.
