Final flight test of latest AMRAAM missile successful
The final test firing of a AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM from a Lockheed Martin fighter aircraft. (Photo: Raytheon)
The USAF and Raytheon have concluded testing of the AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM variant, ensuring increased functionality, performance, and production capabilities for warfighters.
Developmental and operational testing has been completed of the AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM with the final firing of the weapon from a USAF F-16 fighter aircraft. Raytheon, an RTX business, worked with the force to carry out testing on the latest version of the missile using production-standard hardware and software.
The latest version of the missile was developed under the form, fit, function refresh (F3R) program, which upgraded circuit cards in the guidance section of the missile and allows for continuous agile software improvements.
The F3R effort is upgrading the missile in a range of areas, bringing in new high-speed processors, GPS receivers, and a modified inertial navigation system, among other improvements.
Related Articles
F-15EX passes missile firing milestone
US Air Force completes latest AMRAAM missile configuration audit
Paris Air Show: Ukraine to benefit from billion-dollar AMRAAM deal
Developmental and operational test of the AIM-120D-3 included captive carry and live-fires from both USN and USAF fourth and fifth generation platforms. The production ramp increases follow recent contracts, such as a $1.15 billion awarded in June 2023 and $972 million awarded in September 2022.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Spain air report: Demand builds with $19.7 billion up for grabs in unawarded contracts]()
Spain air report: Demand builds with $19.7 billion up for grabs in unawarded contracts
Despite Spain’s modest GDP spend on defence, the country still has a range of fixed-wing and UAV programme requirements as yet unawarded, with a potential US$3.10 billion set to be spent over the next decade.
-
![Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026]()
Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026
The aerospace company’s 2025 performance figures revealed significant orders from various European armed forces and a boost in demand for its uncrewed offerings.
-
![January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026]()
January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026
The first month of 2026 has seen activity in the MALE, rotary-wing, and loitering munition UAV markets, with significant investments and commitments from Germany, Turkey, the UAE and the US. At the same time, questions over loitering munition performance in Ukraine highlight the growing scrutiny alongside rising demand.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities
While an estimated $37.99bn is still to be awarded across the Asia-Pacific uncrewed aerial vehicle market, the balance of potential future spending is unevenly split between various countries, with significant opportunities to be found in the collaborative combat aircraft space.
-
![British Army ACP project progresses with contract selection expected March 2026]()
British Army ACP project progresses with contract selection expected March 2026
Known as Project Nyx, the loyal wingman developed from this initiative will accompany the Apache 64-E and be used to complement tanks and artillery.
