The Pentagon announced that the U.S. State Department approved a potential deal to sell AIM-9X Sidewinder tactical missiles and other related equipment to Canada, estimated at around $264.6 million.

The Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated in a press release last Friday that the potential deal includes 48 tactical missiles of type +AIM-9X Block II, 120 tactical missiles of type AIM-9X Block II, as well as training services and technical, engineering, and logistical support along with various other related equipment.

The agency added that the deal "will enhance Canada's capabilities to address existing and future threats," but noted that it "will not change the balance of power in the region."

U.S. authorities considered the deal "will contribute to activating U.S. foreign policy interests" and will bolster national security by "strengthening the security of the NATO ally."

The American company RTX will be the prime contractor for this deal according to the statement.

The AIM-9X Sidewinder is a supersonic short-range missile produced by Raytheon, a subsidiary of the RTX group. It is equipped with an infrared seeker, used in close-range combat, and can be launched from modern aircraft such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-22 Raptor.

Weighing 84 kilograms and measuring 3 meters in length, it is designed in a way that makes it more maneuverable, containing an infrared control device, an optical sensor, a highly explosive warhead, and a rocket motor.

Both Block II and +Block II are the latest versions of the AIM-9X missiles. These versions feature multiple technological improvements compared to previous models, making them one of the most advanced infrared-guided missiles today.