RAAF pilots engage in live-fire missile testing off NSW coast

The live missile firings, using AIM-9X Sidewinder (Block II) missiles, were reportedly undertaken to contribute to qualification trials of BQM-74E aerial targets during Exercise Archer 25 off the coast of Wollongong and Nowra.

“Exercise Archer 25 was a live air-to-air missile firing generating efficiencies by also contributing to Navy’s BQM-74E qualification trials of their new subsonic aerial target, the BQM-74E,” according to Defence.

During the live-firing, RAAF F-35A Lightning II and EA-18G Growler aircraft with AIM-9X (Block II) Sidewinder and AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air missiles were flown from RAAF Base Williamtown in NSW. RAAF E-7A Wedgetail were also launched from RAAF Base Williamtown during the sorties.

BQM-74E reusable and recoverable subsonic turbojet-powered target drones are primarily used to simulate the threat of a low-altitude anti-ship missile. Older versions of the drone, manufactured by Northrop Grumman, have been used by the US Navy since the 1960s.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.