Anti-Radiation Missile Improvement

The Anti-Radiation Missile Improvement program, led by the Navy, focuses on enhancing the capabilities of anti-radiation missiles through various projects. This initiative includes the High Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM), Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM), and its Extended Range variant (AARGM-ER). The primary objective is to improve missile performance against evolving threats by integrating advanced guidance systems and extending operational range. The program also aims to ensure these systems remain effective in modern combat environments through continuous updates and testing.

The ARM Improvement project emphasizes foreign material assessment to evaluate missile performance against current threat systems. This involves ground and flight testing to refine guidance algorithms and enhance lethality. The project supports the development of surrogate threat systems for realistic testing scenarios, ensuring that the AGM-88 ARM weapon systems can adapt to new air defense tactics and technologies. Additionally, it focuses on updating fleet tactics manuals and training programs based on test findings.

The AARGM project aims to integrate multi-mode guidance systems into existing missile frameworks, enhancing navigational performance and expanding threat coverage. It supports electronic intelligence file upgrades and system integration into new mission planning tools. The project also addresses obsolescence issues through technology infusion, ensuring that the AARGM remains a viable option for countering shutdown threats and improving weapon impact assessments.

The AARGM-ER project seeks to extend the range and survivability of anti-radiation missiles by developing new hardware components such as rocket motors and control actuation systems. It includes system-level operational testing and integration efforts to expand missile deployment capabilities on various aircraft platforms. The project also explores virtual store capabilities for enhanced training environments, ensuring that pilots can effectively engage in anti-surface warfare scenarios even when live munitions are unavailable.