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Singapore Airshow 2008: Raytheon outlines timetable for AIM-9X export availability
Damian Kemp Jane's Aviation Desk Editor - Singapore
Raytheon's new-generation AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder infrared guided air-to-air missile is likely to be available for export before the end of 2008, according to programme officials.
The latest variant of the missile, which is improved by a new one-way datalink and lock-on after launch capability, is expected to reach initial operational capability in 2009 and, according to US Naval Air Systems Command air-to-air missiles programme manager Captain Jeffrey Penfield, is likely to be approved for export later this year.
There are currently eight international customers for the original AIM-9X, with another six customers set to receive the weapon.
The original AIM-9X encountered development problems. However, it has now progressed from use by US Navy (USN) and US Air Force test units, which have conducted more than 137 firings in the past eight years, to use by the USN's Weapon and System User Program in late 2007.
This test saw the missile fired by a Boeing F/A-18C Hornet of the USN's Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VFA-83) against a QF-4 target drone.
According to Capt Penfield, the envelope and capability of the AIM-9X missile is continuing to be evaluated.
"We are seeing modelling and simulation validated by the developmental and operational test firings," he said.
"Tests have included firings using the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System.
"The biggest improvements we are seeing [in the comparison of AIM-9X to AIM-9M] is an improvement in range, angle off [off-boresight engagement] and manoeuvrability."
The digital AIM-9X will be available to users of the analogue AIM-9M via a munitions control unit, which is integrated into the weapons pylon to facilitate its use.
AIM-9X Block II improvements include the replacement of Government Furnished Equipment included in the earlier AIM-9X and further improvements in the failure rate, which, according to the company, is already twice as good as contract requirements.
Damian Kemp Jane's Aviation Desk Editor - Singapore
Raytheon's new-generation AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder infrared guided air-to-air missile is likely to be available for export before the end of 2008, according to programme officials.
The latest variant of the missile, which is improved by a new one-way datalink and lock-on after launch capability, is expected to reach initial operational capability in 2009 and, according to US Naval Air Systems Command air-to-air missiles programme manager Captain Jeffrey Penfield, is likely to be approved for export later this year.
There are currently eight international customers for the original AIM-9X, with another six customers set to receive the weapon.
The original AIM-9X encountered development problems. However, it has now progressed from use by US Navy (USN) and US Air Force test units, which have conducted more than 137 firings in the past eight years, to use by the USN's Weapon and System User Program in late 2007.
This test saw the missile fired by a Boeing F/A-18C Hornet of the USN's Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VFA-83) against a QF-4 target drone.
According to Capt Penfield, the envelope and capability of the AIM-9X missile is continuing to be evaluated.
"We are seeing modelling and simulation validated by the developmental and operational test firings," he said.
"Tests have included firings using the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System.
"The biggest improvements we are seeing [in the comparison of AIM-9X to AIM-9M] is an improvement in range, angle off [off-boresight engagement] and manoeuvrability."
The digital AIM-9X will be available to users of the analogue AIM-9M via a munitions control unit, which is integrated into the weapons pylon to facilitate its use.
AIM-9X Block II improvements include the replacement of Government Furnished Equipment included in the earlier AIM-9X and further improvements in the failure rate, which, according to the company, is already twice as good as contract requirements.