An AARGM-ER is successfully launched from a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet during a recent test. (Photo: Northrop Grumman)
Northrop Grumman has announced the successful completion of the second flight test of its AGM-88G Anti-Radiation Guided Missile Extended Range (AARGM-ER).
The US Navy launched the missile from a F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft on 21 January off the coast of southern California.
The missile performed an extended range profile, engaging a land-based, emitter target staged at a nearby island.
Captain A.C. Dutko, Navy Program Manager for Direct and Time Sensitive Strike commented: ‘This second flight test verified AARGM-ER’s ability to detect, identify, locate and engage a land-based air defence radar system from an extended range’.
Northrop Grumman achieved authorisation for LRIP in September 2021 and is now under contract to deliver production units of AARGM-ER to support a 2023 IOC fielding.
In December 2021, the company received a $45.6 million contract for the second lot of AARGM-ER LRIP.
AARGM-ER leverages existing state-of-the-art AARGM sensors, electronics and digital models with the addition of a new high-performance air vehicle, solid rocket motor propulsion system and advanced warhead.
The system is being integrated on the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler and F-35A/B/C aircraft.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the AARGM-ER is scheduled to achieve IOC on Super Hornets in September 2023.
The use of air power by both sides in the ongoing conflict has been extensively focused on, influencing policy and procurement around the world. But are the lessons from the front line universally applicable, or should other nations be planning for very different scenarios?
Six Super Tucano aircraft were ordered in July 2024, with Paraguay the fifth South American country to add the aircraft to modernise its fleet.
The takeover of the Italian firm by Baykar solidifies the company’s efforts to forge closer ties with Italian industry, bolsters its partnership with Leonardo to produce UAVs and secures its foothold in Europe.
The F-15EX Eagle II had already been singled out for further funding in January 2025, when it was chosen to replace the A-10 aircraft for the US National Guard.
Spain’s Defence Minister told the Senate Defense Commission on 27 June of the decision to acquire Turkish Aerospace Industries’ (TAI) trainers as the country seeks to replace its Northrop F-5M aircraft.
The company has tested over 15 mission sets for the drone, with the rotorcraft used to demonstrate the viability of armed forces utilising large uncrewed aerial systems’ (UAS) for autonomous missions in the future.
Connect with us on socials
