Raytheon increases missile production amid rising demand from U.S., international buyers

The AMRAAM missile continues to undergo development, with efforts now concentrated on an extended-range version. Approximately 600 units have been delivered to Qatar. The AMRAAM-ER (extended range) variant is designed for surface launch using the NASAMS launcher and combines the AIM-120C-8 front end with a larger rocket motor developed in partnership with Nammo and Kongsberg. The first test fire occurred in February at Andøya in Norway.

RTX has also explored an air-launched version using the AIM-120D-3 front end and presented this concept to the U.S. Air Force and Navy. The ER weapon can fit inside the internal bays of F-22 and F-35 fighters, potentially offering greater range and intercept speed when deployed from Navy F/A-18E/F Super Hornets.

In parallel, AIM-9X production is set to increase from 1,400 units per year to 2,500 by Lot 25 (2025), with potential for further growth. The missile is currently used by U.S. services and 32 international customers, including recent buyer Czech Republic for its F-35s. To meet anticipated future demand, RTX is seeking a third supplier for rocket motors.

Additionally, RTX's GBU-53 StormBreaker program is advancing successfully. Last year’s integration trials with the F-35 involved 14 launches that all met their objectives. Plans are underway for the weapon to achieve initial operating capability with Navy Super Hornets before year's end. The GBU-53 (formerly known as Small Diameter Bomb II) features advanced targeting capabilities through millimeter-wave radar, imaging infrared, and laser designation systems. It can be carried internally by both F-35s and already operates on F-15E Strike Eagles.