U.S. approves possible sale of 100 AARGM-ER anti-radiation missiles to Australia

The U.S. State Department has authorized the sale of a significant lot of advanced anti-radiation missiles to the Government of Australia. This transaction, valued at approximately $405 million, will significantly strengthen the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) air defense suppression capabilities.

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The weapons package, notified to the U.S. Congress and disclosed to the public by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), includes the potential sale of one hundred AGM-88G AARGM-ER (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range) missiles, equipped with state-of-the-art global positioning systems with selectively available anti-spoofing module (SAASM).

In addition to the missiles, the sale includes the delivery of components, support equipment, software, training and logistics services. The inclusion of 24 guidance sections and 24 control sections as spare parts ensures the operational sustainability of this weapon system in the Australian inventory.

The new generation of anti-radiation missiles

The AARGM-ER, developed by Northrop Grumman, is a supersonic air-launched tactical missile system, the most advanced airborne counter-defense system for today’s most modern surface-to-air threats.

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The AARGM-ER leverages the existing AARGM’s state-of-the-art sensors, electronics and digital models, placing them within a redesigned aerodynamic body for greater flight efficiency, along with a newly designed solid-state rocket motor and an advanced combat warhead. These modifications allow the missile to reach 200 km range and fit inside the F-35’s weapons bays.

This is the second Australian order for these missiles, having previously ordered 63 units.