Design verification tests of the rocket motor were conducted at extreme cold and hot temperature conditions and successfully demonstrated required propulsion performance. 

Gordon Turner, vice president, advanced weapons at Northrop Grumman, said, “Rocket motor design verification tests represented a significant knowledge point and milestone for engineering and manufacturing development.”

Testing of the warhead successfully demonstrated lethality performance. 

AARGM-ER is being integrated on the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G, and will be compatible for integration of the F-35A/B/C. 

“These tests were important to informing the critical design review and verifying performance of the missile. With our government partners, we are aggressively focused on achieving ‘speed to fleet’ while holding to program cost objectives,” Turner added.

By leveraging the AARGM program, the AARGM-ER program with the new rocket motor and warhead will provide advanced capability to detect and engage long-range adversary air defence systems.

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AARGM is the most advanced system for pilots against today’s modern surface-to-air threats. It is able to rapidly engage land- and sea-based air-defence threats, as well as striking, time-sensitive targets.

AARGM is a US Navy and Italian Air Force international co-operative major defence acquisition program, with the US Navy as the executive agent.

The missile is integrated into the weapons systems on the FA-18C/D Hornet, FA-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler aircraft and the Tornado electronic combat and reconnaissance aircraft utilised by the Italian Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernisation to customers worldwide.

Stephen Kuper

Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.