Just recently divulged examinations with the F- 22 set a brand-new record for the goal- 120 AMRAAM in 2024, part of the type, fit, feature refresh (F 3 R) growth initiative.
The purpose- 120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Rocket (AMRAAM), the foundation of Western beyond-visual-range air combat for greater than 3 decades, has actually attained its longest recognized shot to day. RTX’s Raytheon validated on Sept. 16, 2025, after receiving authorization from the U.S. Flying Force, that an F- 22 Raptor efficiently carried out the record-breaking test in late 2024
The test, conducted over the Eglin Air Force Base range in Florida, showed what Raytheon referred to as “extended time of trip” capability for the AMRAAM, effectively pressing the rocket’s reach further than in the past. While the Air Force has not disclosed the exact distance covered, and the goal- 120’s array is classified, officials stressed that the examination represents the longest well-known AMRAAM shot by a fifth-generation competitor.
The previous lengthiest shot was achieved in 2021 , with the launch system being the F- 15 C Eagle. On that occasion, the rocket struck a BQM- 167 subscale drone during WSEP (Weapons Equipments Analysis Program) East at Tyndall AFB, Florida.
Software-Driven Efficiency Gains
According to the supplier, the record was achieved adhering to the kind, fit, feature refresh (F 3 R) growth initiative to improve AMRAAM’s performance. What makes the success specifically noteworthy is that the improved array was defined mainly as the result of software and systems renovations.
According to Air & & Room Forces Publication , the goal- 120 D made use of in the examination integrated F 3 R updates that included up-to-date electronics, a more efficient battery, and maximized software program with trip accounts that manipulate the high speed and elevation of platforms such as the F- 22 and F- 35
Jon Norman, Raytheon’s vice head of state of requirements and capacities, explained that the projectile’s the rules of aerodynamics and propulsion always had the potential for longer reach, however only current software application improvements opened that ability. “We had the ability to fly it a lot longer,” Norman stated. “It’s flying greater and much longer. We can fly at a much faster rate at launch, which just boosts the efficiency of the projectile.”
This “fly-out optimization” makes it possible for AMRAAM to maintain more kinetic energy at lengthy arrays, giving pilots the capacity to engage targets farther away and with greater chance of success. Notably, due to the fact that the adjustments are software-driven, operators call for no additional training, enabling to promptly field the new capability.
Building on a History of Record Picture
The most recent milestone comes simply 4 years after another record-setting AMRAAM examination. As discussed previously, in 2021, throughout a Defense System Examination Program (WSEP) event at Tyndall AFB, an F- 15 C Eagle accomplished the then-longest well-known air-to-air projectile shot, striking a BQM- 167 drone target.
Currently, the Raptor has asserted the brand-new record, showing that fifth-generation platforms can maximize AMRAAM’s evolving capacities. The continuity of record-breaking shots throughout systems additionally illustrates how the missile has actually continued to be adaptable across generations of boxers, from tradition airplane to stealth designs.
As kept in mind on various other events, the objective- 120 was very first installed on 4 th generation fighters, such the F- 15, F- 16 and F/A- 18, in the A and B variations. After that, with the development of the F- 22, the rocket evolved in the C alternative, which additionally consisted of smaller sized control surfaces so it would fit inside the Raptor’s tools bays.
An International Projectile for a Worldwide Threat Environment
Given that getting in solution in the very early 1990 s, AMRAAM has actually become the standard for medium- and long-range air-to-air interactions. Integrated on 14 platforms throughout 43 nations and with greater than 6, 000 real-time firings to its name, the projectile has shown itself in fight multiple times.
Its flexibility extends beyond air-to-air involvements, as it can also be deployed from the ground through the NASAMS air defense system Raytheon execs typically explain AMRAAM as the “capability weapon” of future U.S. and allied forces– a reputable, affordable, and scalable choice for high-volume usage– as shown by current huge purchase contracts.
In contrast, the Flying force is also developing the Lockheed Martin GOAL- 260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), planned as a higher-performance, longer-range “splendid” option. While originally meant as a substitute for the older kind, the goal- 260 is currently anticipated to offer together with the goal- 120 D 3 a high-low mix of air supremacy weapons.
Norman highlighted this corresponding duty throughout press briefings in 2024: “AMRAAM is coming close to the limit ability that the Air Force would like to have with JATM. Take a look at AMRAAM as your capacity weapon. … It’s the budget-friendly weapon.”
One-upmanship Against Advanced Threats
Peer foe flying force all over the world are fielding progressively qualified long-range rockets. China’s PL- 15 , as an example, is widely reported to have a range of approximately 200 – 300 kilometers (108 – 162 maritime miles), while the export variation, PL- 15 E, gets to regarding 145 kilometers (78 maritime miles). Russia’s R- 37 M is also attributed with severe ranges going beyond 300 kilometers (162 nautical miles).
By comparison, the purpose- 120 D is thought to have a range in excess of 160 km (86 NM), though authorities remain tight-lipped concerning the specific ranges demonstrated in the current examination. Raytheon firmly insists the projectile’s refinements bring it back right into parity with pacing hazards worldwide, and possibly past.
“We didn’t transform propulsion,” Norman discussed of the brand-new D 3 version. “We simply transformed the way it flies for long-range shots, so it has more kinetic power when it hits the target at that variety.”
Along with array enhancements, the latest updates additionally consist of improved resistance to sophisticated electronic war strategies, such as digital superhigh frequency modulation (DRFM) jamming. This makes certain the missile remains efficient against contemporary countermeasures which are getting much more sophisticated day-by-day.
Production and Global Need
The AMRAAM program has seen record degrees of production and financial investment recently. In July 2025, Raytheon was granted a $ 3 5 billion agreement for Production Whole lots 39 and 40– the largest AMRAAM award to day– covering united state solutions and several Foreign Army Sales customers. This agreement exceeded the previous biggest one awarded in September 2024 and worth $ 1 19 billion
Need for AMRAAM has surged from historical averages of 450– 650 rockets yearly to over 1, 200 systems in current lots. The company is additionally exploring options for global co-production, with Japan emerging as a possible companion.
For the U.S. Air Force, sustainment and innovation initiatives are similarly crucial. A current $ 760 million contract will certainly fund “reduction of obsolescence” in manufacturing and sustainment, making certain AMRAAM remains viable for several years to come, additionally demonstrating that the solution will certainly continue to rely upon this weapon for the years ahead.
Looking Ahead
The record-setting shot by the F- 22 confirms that the purpose- 120 AMRAAM remains a main aspect of U.S. and allied air dominance methods. While more recent systems like the AIM- 260 JATM are being developed to counter advanced hazards, AMRAAM’s software-driven evolution, broad assimilation across platforms, and proven fight performance history ensure its ongoing frontline function.
As Sam Deneke, head of state of Air & & Room Defense Equipment at Raytheon, placed it: “AMRAAM is already known as the gold standard for the air prominence sector, and these tests show it will certainly remain to play an essential function for the united state and its allies for years to come.”