Raytheon has begun talks with Lockheed Martin on integrating the AIM-9X short-range air-to-air missile with US Air Force F-22 Raptor stealthy air-superiority fighter. It hopes to be under contract by May, with launches of the next-generation Sidewinder from the F-22 due in mid-2004.
For development and initial operational testing, the F-22 is armed with the AIM-9M, two of which are carried internally in the side weapon bays. Raytheon says the bay environment will be "challenging" for the AIM-9X. The missile, just entering production, offers high off-boresight acquisition and launch, improved maximum and minimum ranges, enhanced infrared counter-countermeasures and increased probability of kill.
The F-22 is due to become operational in late 2005, armed with the AIM-9X but not equipped with the associated Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) because of "technical issues with the head tracker", says USAF F-22 system programme director Brig Gen Jay Jabour. Although the helmet is needed to exploit the missile's high off-boresight capability, the two are being developed separately.
While JHMCS operational evaluation has just been completed, the first production AIM-9X is scheduled to be delivered next month.
Source: Flight International
