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23h ago

Raytheon Confirms Record F-22 AMRAAM Shot as Software Upgrade Extends Range

The company says its F3R refresh lengthens AMRAAM’s time of flight, with the demonstrated capability already built into current production.

File photo of an F-22 Raptor launching an AIM-120 AMRAAM. (Image credit: U.S. Air Force)
Personnel with the 96th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron secure fins onto an AIM-120 missile during the unit’s quarterly weapons load competition Nov. 1st last year at Eglin AFB, Fla. (U.S. Air Force Photo)
Image
The USAF F-22 can carry its entire missile package in its weapons bays. Credit: US DoD

Overview

  • After U.S. Air Force approval, Raytheon disclosed that an F-22 at Eglin AFB executed the longest known AMRAAM shot by a fifth-generation fighter in late 2024.
  • The gains stem from the F3R effort, which adds modernized electronics, a more efficient battery, and optimized flight profiles, with no change to propulsion.
  • Raytheon says missiles now leaving the production line incorporate the extended time-of-flight capability, while exact ranges remain undisclosed for operational security.
  • Output has grown by nearly 50% this year, supported by a $3.5 billion production award for Lots 39–40 and a $760 million contract for sustainment and obsolescence mitigation.
  • The Air Force continues testing the AIM-260 JATM as a higher-end complement, with AMRAAM positioned as the capacity weapon across U.S. and allied fleets.