Despite the AIM-260 JATM missile with a range surpassing that of AIM-120D AMRAAM coming soon for the USAF and USN fighters, Raytheon is keeping the AMRAAM-AXE on the table.
AMRAAM-AXE is a development related to the AMRAAM-ER missile for the NASAMS air defence system but with fighter jet application instead of ground-based use. Thus, the missile uses the same guidance package and components as the AIM-120D AMRAAM, The Insider Editor Colby Badhwar reported.
But one question remains: why continue with a similarly sized long-range missile with the AIM-260 JATM? How the U.S. plans to use the all-new BVRAAM and comparing specifications might help understand why.
Firstly, the U.S. is not likely to provide the AIM-260 with new capabilities like multi-pulse rocket motors and multi-mode seeker to export customers for some years due to its status as a strategic asset.
However, AMRAAM-AXE’s use of existing components and a jump in capabilities less than AIM-260 make it more open to export users, or rather a select group based on strategic relations. The missile is planned to be compatible with the F-35’s internal weapon bays and fourth-generation fighters.
Secondly, AIM-260’s use of new technologies can be expected to drive up the costs, especially in the initial production phase. However, AMRAAM-AXE would be significantly cheaper and easier to introduce, thanks to a well-known interface and established production line for critical components.
To sum up everything, Raytheon might envision AMRAAM-AXE as an interim solution with export-friendliness alongside AIM-260 in case the cost and commissioning for the new missile go south.
After all, there have been multiple instances of next-generation air-to-air missile programmes being cancelled due to costs and complexities despite the missiles being put to tests like AIM-152 and AIM-97.
