NAVAIR orders more AARGM-ER missiles
Northrop Grumman subsidiary Alliant Techsystems Operations is to supply the USN with more LRIP Lot 2 AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile - Extended Range (AARGM-ER) air-launched munitions.
Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) awarded a $45.66 million contract modification, the DoD announced on 13 December.
Work will be completed by December 2024 and includes the production and delivery of 16 all-up rounds; six training missiles; four built-in test reprogramming units and interface devices; initial spares; and required manufacturing supplies and support.
The AARGM-ER is being integrated on the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler and F-35C; the Air Force’s F-35A; and the Marine Corps' F-35B.
It has been modified so that it is shorter in length than the AARGM and can fit in the internal weapons bay of F-35As and F-35Cs.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, AARGM-ER is scheduled to achieve IOC on Super Hornets in September 2023, following a test programme with 15 to 17 live-fire tests.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
EuroDASS partners unveil details on next-gen EW system for Eurofighter Typhoon
The consortium has given details on the next-generation of sensing and jamming capabilities on the Eurofighter Typhoon without needing to update the airframe, according to the group’s partners.
-
Romania signs $7.2 billion deal to buy 32 F-35A jets
The Romanian government has formalised a deal to purchase 32 F-35A aircraft from the US. The jets will not be expected to be operational in Romania until 2030.
-
US Air Force A-10s to exit South Korea in favour of fourth- and fifth-gen fighter jets
The US Air Force will transition away from its ageing A-10 aircraft in 2025, in favour of updating and enhancing its F-16, and introducing F-15EX and F-35 Lightning II jets in the region.