AMRAAM Missile Range Extended Through Software Updates

RTX’s Raytheon unit has substantially extended the range of the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile through primarily software changes during experimental tests in 2024. This enhancement increases the reach and lethality of the standard U.S. dogfighting weapon, potentially improving the competitive edge against Chinese aircraft equipped with longer-ranged missiles like the PL-15. Further range improvements are also being explored.

The Air Force and RTX conducted the tests at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., using AIM-120D missiles launched from an F-22. Raytheon officials revealed the results ahead of AFA’s Air, Space and Cyber conference, noting this was the longest known AMRAAM shot from a fifth-generation fighter.

The AMRAAM is currently integrated on 14 platforms across 43 countries and is also utilized in the NASAMS air defense system. While the exact range remains classified, the AMRAAM D3 variant is generally estimated to have a range of around 80 miles. Test results demonstrated a further increase in range, though Raytheon deferred specific figures to the Air Force. In comparison, the Chinese PL-15 is reported to have a range of up to 190 miles, with the export version (PL-15E) reaching approximately 90 miles.

The improvements stem from a Form, Fit, and Function Refresh (F3R) update to the missile’s guidance section, leveraging “modern electronics” and a slightly more powerful propulsion system. Jon Norman, Raytheon vice president of requirements and capabilities, emphasized that the primary advancement lies in a more efficient battery and software optimized for the high altitudes and speeds of fifth-generation fighters like the F-22 and F-35.

Engineers successfully “extended the time of flight” of the AMRAAM, thereby increasing its overall range. “we were able to fly it much longer,” Norman stated, referencing the missile’s propulsion and aerodynamic properties.