Tactical AIM Missiles

The Tactical AIM Missiles program, outlined under Program Element (PE) 0207161F in the Air Force's FY 2026 Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is focused on the continued development and enhancement of the AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missile system. This program aims to provide advanced air-to-air combat capabilities for U.S. fighter aircraft, ensuring survivability and lethality against evolving aerial threats. The overarching goal is to maintain air superiority by delivering a launch-and-leave infrared-guided missile that complements radar-guided systems and is effective against both manned and unmanned enemy aircraft.

The AIM-9X Product Improvement line item is the primary focus of this program element, with objectives centered on technical refreshes and pre-planned product improvements for the AIM-9X weapon system. Key goals include hardware and software upgrades, systems engineering, program management, and integration of the missile with various U.S. military aircraft platforms. The program is addressing component obsolescence, enhancing producibility and reliability, and incorporating anti-tamper and cybersecurity features.

In FY 2026, significant efforts will be made to complete software development and testing for Operational Flight Software (OFS) versions 10.5X and 11.5X, initiate OFS v11.6X development, and finalize System Improvement Plan (SIP) IV hardware, which includes advanced sensors and upgraded electronics.

A major objective for FY 2026 is the Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Development initiative. This effort is designed to advance seeker, warhead, and fuze technologies to address the growing threat posed by adversary unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The program seeks to mature these technologies to higher technology readiness levels, enabling the AIM-9X missile to effectively counter UAS threats in addition to traditional manned aircraft. This capability responds to a Joint Urgent Operational Need and is driven by the increasing prevalence and sophistication of adversary UAS in modern combat environments.

The AIM-9X, Test and Evaluation line item supports developmental and operational testing required to ensure successful integration of the AIM-9X missile with Air Force platforms. Objectives include executing joint testing efforts for various OFS versions, including developmental, integrated, and operational test activities. These tests are critical for validating software releases and hardware upgrades, ensuring the missile meets performance requirements and is suitable for operational deployment. Funding for test and evaluation is adjusted annually based on the scope of planned testing and efficiency initiatives.

Management services and systems engineering are also supported within this program element, with objectives focused on program oversight, contract support, and coordination among prime contractors and government activities. Civilian pay expenses are included to ensure adequate staffing for program management and execution, supplementing other Air Force program elements dedicated to personnel costs. These management activities are essential for delivering weapon system capability on schedule and within budget.

The Acquisition Strategy for the AIM-9X Block II program is structured around full-rate production and ongoing upgrades through technical refresh cycles. The program is a joint service effort led by the Department of the Navy, with the Air Force participating in operational system development and integration. The strategy includes leveraging digital acquisition tenets such as open architecture, agile development, and digital engineering to reduce redundant costs and improve efficiency. Recent increases in funding for FY 2026 are attributed to the need for SIP IV development, which is critical for countering advanced infrared countermeasures and keeping pace with emerging threats.