TUCSON, Ariz., (July 11, 2016) — In a joint U.S. Air Force-Navy test, a F-35A intercepted an airborne target using a Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) AIM-9X® Block I, the first short-range, air-to-air missile to be integrated on the next-generation fighter.
The test proved the AIM-9X’s ‘end-to-end’ system capability on the F-35, from loading through target intercept.
“The aircraft and missile must work together, communicating and sharing data, to intercept a target,” said Mark Justus, AIM-9X program director for Raytheon Missile Systems. “AIM-9X and many of Raytheon’s other air-launched weapons will provide next-generation fire power for the world’s most advanced fighter 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 AIM-9X is on track for integration across the F-35 fleet in 2017.
About AIM-9X
- AIM-9X is a U.S. Navy-led, joint U.S. Navy, Air Force program.
- Raytheon has been producing AIM-9X missiles for more than 14 years.
- AIM-9X entered operational service in 2003; international deliveries began in 2005.
- AIM-9X currently has 20 international customers. This includes nine original Block I customers, followed by 11 new and five repeat Block II customers.
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