This could be the longest-range AIR-TO-AIR Missile in US History!

Summary

The US Navy has unveiled its new air-to-air missile, the AIM-174, an air-launched variant of the SM-6 interceptor. This weapon promises to be America's longest-ranged air-to-air missile, combining quasi-ballistic capabilities with the air-to-air prowess of the AIM-54 Phoenix. The missile could significantly enhance the offensive and defensive capabilities of the Navy's carrier-based fighters, with potential ranges exceeding 200 miles and the ability to engage both air and surface targets. The AIM-174's versatility and combat-proven record suggest it may become a key asset in the US Navy's arsenal.

Takeaways

• 🚀 The US Navy has revealed its newest air-to-air missile, the AIM-174, which is an air-launched variant of the SM-6 interceptor.
• 🔥 The AIM-174 promises to be America's longest-ranged air-to-air missile in history, combining the capabilities of Russia's Kinzhal missile and the AIM-54 Phoenix.
• 🔍 The missile is designed to be launched from the Mark 41 vertical launch system and has demonstrated its versatility in training, exercises, and combat operations.
• 🎯 The SM-6 is referred to as a tri-mission capable weapon, meaning it can serve as an anti-air, sea-based terminal defense, and anti-surface warfare roles.
• 🌐 The missile system can receive target information from various platforms via the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) concept, enhancing its targeting capabilities.
• 📸 The AIM-174 was first spotted in images posted by an aviation photographer on Instagram, mounted on an F/A-18E Super Hornet during RIMPAC 2024 exercises.
• 💥 The missile could potentially engage airborne targets at ranges beyond 200 miles and surface targets from even further, doubling the reach of current AMRAAM missiles.
• 🛫 The integration with NIFC-CA allows Super Hornets to launch missiles from hundreds of miles away, relying on other radar arrays or platforms like the F-35 to relay target data.
• 💣 The AIM-174 carries a 140 lb high explosive blast fragmentation warhead, making it powerful for engaging enemy aircraft but potentially less effective against large warships.
• 🛠️ The weapon's development and testing suggest it is nearing operational service, although the Navy has not officially acknowledged its plans for the AIM-174.
• 🌐 The missile's broad capability set, combat-proven record, and potential to be employed by both warships and fighter jets make it a significant addition to the US Navy's arsenal.

Q & A

What is the AIM-174 missile and what does it signify for air warfare?

The AIM-174 is an air-launched variant of the SM-6 interceptor missile, designed to be America's longest-ranged air-to-air missile. It combines the capabilities of Russia's Kinsel missile and the AIM-54 Phoenix, promising to revolutionize air warfare with its extended range and multi-role capabilities.

What is the significance of the AIM-174 being an air-launched variant of the SM-6?

The AIM-174, as an air-launched variant of the SM-6, offers the ability to engage enemy aircraft from hundreds of miles away and can also intercept ballistic or cruise missiles. This provides a significant leap in both offensive and defensive capabilities for carrier-based fighters.

How does the AIM-174 compare to the AIM-54 Phoenix in terms of air-to-air capabilities?

The AIM-174 is reminiscent of the AIM-54 Phoenix in its air-to-air prowess but with about twice the range, making it a more formidable weapon for engaging enemy aircraft at long distances.

What is the 'N' prefix in the AIM-174B designation and what does it imply?

The 'N' prefix in AIM-174B signifies that the weapon is in a testing status, indicating significant modifications from its original use case, making reconversion to the original configuration neither planned nor feasible at reasonable costs.

How does the AIM-174 missile's range compare to existing air-to-air missiles?

The AIM-174 is expected to have a significantly greater range than existing air-to-air missiles, potentially allowing it to engage targets beyond 200 miles, which is more than double the reach of the latest AMRAAM missiles.

What is the role of the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) in the operation of the AIM-174?

The NIFC-CA is vital for the AIM-174's operation as it allows the missile to receive updated target information from various platforms, enabling it to close in on its target until it can transition to its onboard radar seeker.

How does the AIM-174's speed compare to other missiles, and what does this mean for its effectiveness?

The AIM-174 achieves speeds around Mach 3.5 when engaging airborne threats and can likely reach hypersonic speeds when closing in on surface targets. This high speed makes it a potent weapon for both air-to-air and surface engagements.

What is the potential impact of the AIM-174 on the US Navy's ability to counter anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategies?

The AIM-174's ability to intercept ballistic and cruise missiles at long ranges could significantly counter A2/AD strategies, such as China's DF-21D and DF-26 anti-ship ballistic missiles, by providing a means to engage these threats from standoff distances.

How does the AIM-174's versatility as both an air-to-air and air-to-surface weapon enhance its strategic value?

The AIM-174's versatility allows it to engage a variety of targets in the air, on land, and at sea, making it a truly multi-purpose weapon that can be employed by both warships and fighter jets, enhancing its strategic value in diverse combat scenarios.

What is the potential loadout for a Super Hornet carrying AIM-174 missiles, and how might this affect its operational capabilities?

While theoretically a Super Hornet could carry five AIM-174s, it is more likely to carry two, along with additional weapons or fuel tanks. This loadout would significantly increase the Super Hornet's combat capacity, equipping it to engage a wide range of targets at extended ranges.

What is the current status of the AIM-174 in terms of operational service, and what does this mean for its future deployment?

As of the script's information, the AIM-174 has not been officially acknowledged by the Navy for operational service. However, its appearance in exercises and official designation suggest that it is likely to be put into service in the near future, potentially revolutionizing the US Navy's air warfare capabilities.