Most advanced AMRAAM variant, AIM-120D-3, completes critical milestone for operational use

Rhea-AI Summary

The U.S. Air Force has successfully completed the Functional Configuration Audit for the AIM-120D-3, the latest variant of Raytheon Technologies' Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile. This milestone indicates the missile is on schedule for operational deployment within the year. The AIM-120D-3 features advanced hardware and enhanced software capabilities designed to counter both current and future threats. Integrated on multiple platforms across 42 countries, it is the first air-to-air weapon able to engage peer threats at extended ranges. Following rigorous testing including live firings, the F3R program continues with the AIM-120 C-8 variant, aimed at international clients. Raytheon Technologies, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, reported $67 billion in sales for 2022, solidifying its position as a leader in aerospace and defense.

Positive

• Successful completion of the Functional Configuration Audit for AIM-120D-3.
• AIM-120D-3 scheduled for operational deployment by U.S. Air Force and Navy in 2023.
• Missile features upgraded hardware and software, enhancing capabilities against modern threats.
• Widely integrated across 14 platforms in 42 countries, highlighting global demand.

Negative

• None.

The AIM-120D-3 is produced under the Form, Fit, Function Refresh, or F3R, program

TUCSON, Ariz., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force has completed the Functional Configuration Audit, or FCA, of the latest variant of Raytheon Technologies' (NYSE: RTX) Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile. The AMRAAM® AIM-120D-3 is on-track toward fielding by both the Air Force and Navy this year.

The AIM-120D-3 features modernized hardware, including 15 upgraded circuit cards developed with model-based systems engineering initiatives under the Form, Fit, Function Refresh program, and uses the latest System Improvement Program-3F software. The missile brings tremendous capability to counter both current and future threats and is postured to receive continuous Agile software enhancements through upcoming SIP efforts.

"Integrated on 14 platforms in 42 countries, AMRAAM is the only fielded air-to-air weapon with the ability to counter peer threats at extended range," said Paul Ferraro, president of Air Power, Raytheon Missiles & Defense. "The AIM-120D-3 takes the known and trusted AMRAAM to the next level to meet the evolving needs of the warfighter and combatant commanders." 

The AIM-120D-3 Functional Configuration Audit follows a test program encompassing captive carry missions, platform bench testing and a series of live firings from multiple Air Force and Navy platforms - proving out the weapon's effectiveness. F3R testing continues with the AIM-120 C-8 variant – designed for international customers -- with FCA expected on that version later this year.

All AMRAAMs planned for production are D3 or C8 variants incorporating the F3R functionality.

About Raytheon Technologies
Raytheon Technologies is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. Our global team of 180,000 employees pushes the limits of known science and redefines how we connect and protect our world. We are advancing aviation, building smarter defense systems and creating innovations to take us deeper into space. The company, with 2022 sales of $67 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Savanah Bray
rmdpr@rtx.com

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SOURCE Raytheon Technologies

FAQ

What is the significance of the AIM-120D-3 completing its Functional Configuration Audit?

The completion of the Functional Configuration Audit for the AIM-120D-3 indicates that the missile is one step closer to operational deployment, confirming its readiness for both the U.S. Air Force and Navy.

When will the AIM-120D-3 be operational?

The AIM-120D-3 is on track for operational deployment by both the U.S. Air Force and Navy in 2023.

What features does the AIM-120D-3 missile have?

The AIM-120D-3 includes modernized hardware with upgraded circuit cards and the latest software to counter evolving threats.

How many countries use the AIM-120D-3 missile?

The AIM-120D-3 is integrated across 42 countries.

What company manufactures the AIM-120D-3 missile?

The AIM-120D-3 missile is manufactured by Raytheon Technologies.