An AARGM-ER is launched from a US Navy test F/A-18F Super Hornet. Photo: US Navy.
The process of bolstering the Australian Defence Force’s magazine depth has taken another step, with the acquisition of additional stocks of anti-radar missiles for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
The new AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missiles will add to an initial buy of AARGM-ERs announced in August 2023 to primarily equip the RAAF’s 12 Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft, but are also capable of being launched from its Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet and Lockheed Martin F-35A combat aircraft.
The missile provides the Growler with the ability to ‘hard-kill’ an enemy radar rather than just jam or disrupt its signal with its onboard electronic warfare/attack systems.
The AARGM-ER is a development of the AGM-88A-D/F HARM and AGM-88E AARGM series of missiles which are designed to home in on and destroy enemy air defence radar systems.
The AARGM-ER, built by Northrop Grumman, features a new low-observable fuselage with a nearly full-length chine and a new rocket motor which more than doubles the range of its predecessors to more than 300 km, a new warhead, and navigation and targeting systems that give it an ability to press an attack even if the target radar has been switched off.
The AARGM-ER was approved to enter production in August 2021, and has been ordered by the US Navy and Air Force, Netherlands, Finland, and Poland. An initial operational capability (IOC) of the missile was declared with the US Navy in 2023.
The RAAF’s $650 million acquisition will be made through the US Navy via the US’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mechanism, and adds to the $431 million 2023 deal.
Defence hasn’t revealed the number of missiles to be acquired, but the 2023 deal stemmed from a request to the US State Department by the US Defense Cooperation Security Agency (DSCA) – a formality required before a sale is approved and announced – for “up to 63” missiles, plus 20 captive air carry rounds, dummy rounds, and other support, test, and training equipment.
A September 2024 DSCA request indicated Australia had requested “up to 100” AARGM-ERs plus spare guidance systems, and other support and training equipment.
Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy said the missiles would improve the range, survivability and effectiveness of the RAAF to find and destroy enemy radars.
“The Albanese Government is delivering its commitment to enhance Australia’s long-range strike capability, delivering on a key priority of the National Defence Strategy,” he said.
“This acquisition is a testament to Australia’s strong, long-standing alliance with the United States.”
