AIM-132 is an option for F-35 customers, however the RAAF has not taken that path.
In the F-35 development phase, it was assumed that AIM-132 would be carried internally and externally on the F-35. However, some problems have developed and it could end up as external carry only.
Back in 1998, AIM-132 was selected by the RAAF for legacy F-18s after a process which eliminated the AIM-9X and the Python-4.
Besides the helmet targeting and off-bore-sight targeting ability, range is its big selling point. You can get off a shot first before the other guy. It even has a potential beyond-visual-range engagement ability.
Disadvantage of AIM-132 for the RAAF? It isn't in the U.S. supply chain for joint operations.
With that though, it would have been nice if the 2006-7 "bridging fighter" and replacement for the legacy F-18s was based on the use of AIM-132, LITENING Pod (which is also used by the RAAF), and the potential for Meteor capability.
If the F-35 fails and Australia came to its senses and restarted with a clean sheet of paper, it could take advantage of some truly practical appliances for the F-18 replacement.
6 comments:
Eric,
Valuable information re A2A. Keep it up.
But since the RAAF acquired the two-seat F model Super Hornet as its primary strike platform, some consideration of this aspect would be also welcome.
In the strike arena there are some interesting developments coming down the pipeline that can be integrated with the Super. Such as:
MALD J: http://raytheon.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=2174
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADM-160_MALD
JASSM-ER: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JASSM
As readers of this blog would know, the RAAF has already ordered the JASSM (range 370 km). It had a troubled gestation but, as I understand it, is now cleared for service. Not sure if the Extended Range model (claimed range 925 km)is under RAAF consideration.
Interesting that neither JASSM model can fit into the weapons bay of the F-35,
Well, the ASRAAM uses standart NATO launch rails , so it would be not to much of a problem to integrate the missile in the F/A-18F arsenal once the legacy hornet is out of service.
I'd like to see a block III Super Hornet 'E' (with CFT, the type IV computer or probably an updated type IV by then, enhanced radar capabilities/ECM and the next-gen enhanced Litening SE pod on the centerline (w/ 1k FLIR and IRST capability)), vs a block III F-35A in a Red Flag 2018 exercise.
Men to men, machine to machine, in a 2 vs 2. Well, maybe a 3v2.
Arm the Super+ cruising at 35,000' with 4x Stunner + 2x ASRAAM-evolved + 2 MALD/J. (note: the budget required to acquire said Super Hornet platform would more than allow to afford actual next-gen munitions and pivotal, evolved off-the-shelf systems).
Arm the block III F-35 with any remaining monies left: if lucky, arm it with 4x AIM-120D.
It would be an interesting computer model.
48 Low observable Super Hornets with HMD and the 6th generation missile call dolphin head, developed by Rafael and Rytheon will be abusive air to air fighters. Thats what Australia needs.
Those missiles a have radar and infrared sensor in the head.
http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rafael-eyes-dolphin-head-nose-design-for-air-to-air-missiles-362593/
http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rafael-gets-to-work-on-next-generation-air-to-air-missile-380145/
Interesting when you see the evolution into the CAMM missile.Dual use.
Is the same head they will use for their long range interceptor missiles like the iron dome.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAX0OPyCLXk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eOlvFJscqg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U762Tq5USnw
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