Overview

• Raytheon confirmed an F-22 at Eglin AFB executed the longest known AMRAAM shot by a fifth‑generation fighter during fall 2024 testing.
• Officials described a significant increase in effective reach and time of flight, with exact distances withheld as operationally sensitive.
• The upgrades center on F3R changes such as a more efficient battery, modernized guidance electronics, and flight‑profile “fly‑out optimization,” with no propulsion change.
• Raytheon says current production missiles already include the demonstrated capability, as output has risen by almost 50 percent this year.
• Large awards underscore demand, including a $3.5 billion July 2025 production contract and a $760 million sustainment and obsolescence effort, while AMRAAM remains the broad “capacity” weapon alongside the developing AIM‑260 JATM.