Gordon Turner, vice president, advanced weapons, Northrop Grumman, explained “AARGM-ER provides the Navy with a demonstrated capability to stay ahead of adversary threats. This successful live fire continues to prove the missile’s extended range, readiness and effectiveness.”

Currently, deliveries for the AARGM-ER are expected to begin later in the year to support initial operational capability for the US Navy in 2024. The missile is also expected to be integrated on the Navy F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler as well as the Air Force F-35A, Marine Corps F-35B and Navy/Marine Corps F-35C.

US Navy Captain Alex Dutko, Navy program manager for Direct and Time Sensitive Strike (PMA-242), added, “AARGM-ER once again demonstrated high-speed employment of lethal effects against an air defence system target”.

AARGM-ER development uses digital modelling and integrated advanced AARGM sensors and electronics in a new high-performance air vehicle with upgraded propulsion and an optimised warhead.

Northrop Grumman’s new missile will provide the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps with a vital counter-air-defence capability that can engage advanced and long-range threats while pilots remain outside of lethal engagement ranges.

The AARGM-ER government-industry team recently received the William J. Perry award, recognising their exceptional contributions to precision strike systems which strengthen national security and shapes the nation’s precision strike combat advantage.

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“This is another successful step in our government-industry team’s effort to deliver this critically needed capability to our warfighters,” CAPT Dutko added.