Saudi Arabia expands arsenal with advanced munitions from US

Saudi Arabia is set to enhance its military capabilities with recent approvals from the US for significant arms acquisitions, BulgarianMilitary.com features.

The US has granted approval for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) to purchase 2,503 AGM-114R3 Hellfire II missiles, a deal valued at around $655 million. This acquisition includes the missiles, along with supplementary support and testing equipment, integration and testing services, spare and repair parts, and software maintenance. Among the 2,503 missiles ordered, three are designated for testing and will be assessed upon delivery. 

The primary deployment platform for these Hellfire missiles is the Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, but they will also be used on RSAF's AH-6 Little Bird helicopters and MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The AGM-114R3 Hellfire II is a precision missile guided by laser, specifically engineered to strike armored vehicles, bunkers, and other high-value targets.

It is approximately 163 cm long and weighs 49 kg, with an effective range of about 8 km. The missile features a multifunctional warhead suitable for both anti-armor and fragmentation applications. Its laser guidance system enables accurate targeting of both stationary and moving objects, while its modular design allows compatibility with various platforms, such as helicopters, drones, and ground systems.  

Recent testing of the AGM-114R3 Hellfire II has showcased its improved capabilities. The US Army and Lockheed Martin recently conducted tests focusing on the missile's advanced software, guidance system, and versatile warhead. These evaluations demonstrated the missile’s effectiveness in engaging a diverse array of targets, including armored vehicles and structures, even in challenging operational scenarios.

One significant test involved launching the AGM-114R3 Hellfire II from unmanned platforms like the MQ-9 Reaper, simulating real-world combat situations with successful strikes on both moving and stationary targets. These trials aim to enhance the missile’s lock-on-after-launch capability and improve its versatility in target engagement. The focus on the missile’s precision and extended range highlighted its readiness for broader deployment.  

The primary users of the AGM-114R3 Hellfire II are the US armed forces and their allies. The US military deploys the missile on various platforms, with the AH-64 Apache attack helicopters serving as the main carriers. Unmanned aerial vehicles such as the MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1 Predator utilize the Hellfire for precise ground strikes.

Additionally, the US Navy employs the AGM-114 from helicopters like the MH-60R/S Seahawk for anti-ship operations and other target engagements. Special forces also utilize the missile on aircraft like the AC-130 Spectre. Several US allies, including the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, also utilize the AGM-114R3 Hellfire II. 

The UK incorporates it into its MQ-9 Reaper drones, while Saudi Arabia primarily employs it on its AH-64 Apache helicopters. Israel has integrated the missile into various unmanned systems and combat helicopters for defense operations.

Many of these countries deploy the Hellfire for missions targeting tanks, armored vehicles, and fortified positions.   In addition to the Hellfire missiles, Saudi Arabia has received approval to acquire 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles and 10,000 M456 series 105mm high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) tracer cartridges.

This acquisition also includes a diverse range of other munitions, such as tank, howitzer, and machine gun shells; propelling charges; fuzes; primers; grenades; support and test equipment; integration and testing services; spare and repair parts; software delivery and support; technical publications; and training equipment.

The total value of these acquisitions is approximately $390 million. Saudi Arabia has various platforms that can effectively utilize these munitions. The AGM-114R3 Hellfire II missiles are primarily launched from AH-64 Apache helicopters, which are integral to the Saudi Air Force's operations against ground forces, including armored vehicles and fortifications. 

This combination of advanced missiles and combat helicopters enhances Saudi Arabia's ground combat capabilities.   The AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles are deployed on Saudi Arabia’s F-15SA fighter jets, upgraded versions of the F-15 that can perform complex aerial maneuvers and missions.

The Sidewinder is vital for air combat, providing protection against enemy aircraft and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s air superiority.   Additionally, Saudi Arabia employs 105mm M456 High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) tracer cartridges on older tanks like the M60A3 within their ground forces.

These munitions are specifically designed to defeat armored targets, enhancing the kingdom’s anti-tank capabilities. Other ammunition, such as tank and howitzer shells, along with grenades and machine gun rounds, are used by platforms like the M1A2 Abrams and M109 Paladin, further increasing the overall firepower of Saudi ground forces.

By Naila Huseynova