The AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Guided Missile Extended Range (AARGM-ER) successfully completed its second test campaign, hitting a radar simulating an enemy air defense system at long range.
As reported by Northrop Grumman in its press release, the U.S. Navy launched the missile from a F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft on Jan. 21 at the Point Mugu range off the coast of southern California. The missile flew an extended-range profile. It successfully identified and attacked an emitting radar simulating an enemy air defense system located on the San Nicolas Island range. The first test had been conducted on July 19, 2021, at the same test range.
«This second flight test verified the AARGM-ER’s ability to detect, identify, locate and attack a ground-based air defense radar system from an extended range,» said Capt. A.C. Dutko, Navy Program Manager for Direct and Time Sensitive Attack (PMA-242). «Thanks to the exceptional efforts of our government/industrial team, we are one step closer to providing the capability to suppress the adversary’s most advanced air defense systems without endangering our warfighters.»
Also, in September 2021, Northrop Grumman obtained authorization to begin low-rate initial production (LRIP) of the AGM-88G. The company currently has a contract to supply production units of the AARGM-ER to support efforts to reach initial operating capability (IOC) in 2023. Meanwhile, in December 2021, Northrop Grumman received a $45.6 million contract for the second batch of AARGM-ER LRIP missiles.
Noticeably, the AARGM-ER leverages the existing AARGM’s state-of-the-art sensors, electronics, and digital models. It places them within a redesigned aerodynamic body for greater flight efficiency, along with a newly designed solid-state rocket motor and advanced warhead. These modifications allow the missile to reach a 200 km range and fit inside the F-35’s weapons bays.
A final consideration
Mary Petryszyn, vice president and corporate president of Northrop Grumman Defense Systems commented «This flight test further demonstrated the AARGM-ER’s critical ability to accurately engage long-range threats while allowing the launch crew to remain at a safe distance.»
The AARGM-ER is being integrated into the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft, as well as fifth-generation F-35A/B/Cs.
