First AIM-9X sidewinder delivered

Sea Power, Jun 2002 by Burgess, Richard R

Aviation Programs Update

Raytheon delivered the first production AIM-9X version of its famous Sidewinder air-to-air missile on 1 May, marking the beginning of a projected 18-year production of the revolutionary missile.

"Air-to-air tactics as they exist today will no longer be the same," said Capt. David Venlet, the Naval Air Systems Command's program manager for airto-air missile systems. "This is an advanced system design which provides the warfighter with the firepower to ensure air superiority against any threat that exists today."

The AIM-9X is equipped with a fifthgeneration staring focal-plane array imaging seeker with near instantaneous slew rates that enable the missile to acquire a target at extremely high off-boresight angles. The missile-which uses jet-vane control to produce extremely agile turning performance, and which can be coupled to the Joint Helmet-- Mounted Cueing System-allows the pilot to fire it without pointing the aircraft's nose at the target. The missile also possesses an advanced infrared counter-- countermeasures capability.

The AIM-9X also features a cryo-- engine that manufactures the missile's cooling gas. Earlier versions of the Sidewinder required tanks of nitrogen or argon for cooling.

Developmental testing of the AIM-9X has been completed. Operational testing of the missile began in March 2002. Full-rate production is expected to begin in fiscal year 2003. The AIM-9X will be deployed on the FIA-18, F-15, F-16, and F-22 and on the Joint Strike Fighter.

Related Note: The Naval Air Systems Command's AIM-9X Sidewinder Air-To-Air Missile Integrated Product Team has been selected to receive the Order of Daedalians' Weapon System Award for 2001.

RICHARD R. BURGESS Managing Editor