Northrop Grumman displayed the more compact iteration of its ground-launched AARGM-ER concept during ADEX2025 held in the capital of the ROK, Seoul.
AReS is intended to provide dedicated engagement against enemy radars with the use of a dual-mode passive radar+mmWR seeker, with the mmWR component acting as a countermeasure against relocation or turn-off.
Considering the maximum launch range of AARGM-ER being 300 km for aircraft, the ground-launched variant is likely to have a range of roughly 150 km. Most rocket-powered munitions have an air/ground launch range ratio of two as a rule of thumb.
Previously, Northrop Grumman’s proposal for ground-launched AARGM-ER consisted of a nine-round containerised launcher using a full-length container.
However, the new launcher is more compact with a shorter container holding for canisters.
AARGM-ER is the latest member of the AGM-88 HARM family, placing the guidance and warhead sections of the AGM-88F AARGM inside a completely new body. The new “bus” for AGM-88E AARGM-ER features a larger rocket motor and a new aerodynamic layout with tail fin controls coupled with strakes.
The missile also forms the basis for the SiAW air-to-surface missile, which is continuing its tests. SiAW is meant to be a high-speed strike missile with a wide range of targets, compatible with F-35 and other stealthy aircraft. While SiAW will fill AARGM-ER’s gaps in said regard, it remains mostly identical to the parent design externally.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
