AIM-9X Block I fired from F-35A
Raytheon, along with the US Navy and US Air Force, has successfully test-fired three AIM-9X Block I short-range, air-to-air missiles from an F-35A aircraft.
All three targeted and directly hit airborne targets. They are the first short-range, air-to-air missiles to be used on the F-35 platform, and the successful tests demonstrate the end-to-end capability of the AIM-9X on-board the aircraft.
The tests proved the missile's loading, in-flight carriage, target acquisition and track, launch separation, safe separation, in-flight guidance and impact/proximity fuzing at target intercept capabilities on the aircraft.
The F-35 can carry two AIM-9X missiles on its wings and four AIM-120s internally when configured for an air dominance mission. The fourth guided test in the series will take place later in 2016.
Mark Justus, AIM-9X program director for Raytheon Missile Systems, said: 'These tests validated the on-board communications and handoffs between the aircraft and the missile required to prosecute an aerial target.
'AIM-9X will help ensure our pilots and allies have the most reliable and effective weapons on the F-35. We look forward to the remaining flight test and integration work, leading to fielding of the AIM-9X on the most advanced fighter aircraft.'
Introduction of the AIM-9X across the F-35 fleet is expected in 2017.
More from Defence Notes
-
France unveils new strategic review as Macron vows to accelerate defence spend
The 2025 National Strategic Review highlights the importance of readiness against a growing Russian threat and was published days after a speech from the French President Macron who called for an increase in defence spending worth €6.5 billion by 2027.
-
Europe turns to industrial and procurement co-operation with Ukraine as supplies continue
Equipment has continued to flow into Ukraine from the European Union (EU), NATO and western countries as the war against Russia continues but other types of support with longer-term prospects are appearing.
-
UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost
The UK’s National Security Strategy brings together the recently released Strategic Defence Review (SDR), Strategic Security Review, AUKUS Review and Industrial and Trade Strategies. At the same time, the UK made a commitment to reach defence spending of 5% of GDP by 2035 and Germany committed to 3.5% by 2029.
-
Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide
The House Committee on Appropriations approved a FY2026 bill reducing investments in main defence programmes.
-
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.