US Navy reveals ultra-long-range air-to-air AIM-424 Malice missile with over 460 km. range
The Navy states its range is “in excess of 250 nautical miles,” placing it well beyond conventional beyond‑visual‑range weapons such as the AIM‑120 AMRAAM.
The US Navy unveiled the details of the AIM-424 Malice, an ultra-long-range air-to-air missile, at the Tailhook Symposium in Reno, Nevada. Developed by Raytheon, the missile is designed to enhance the engagement range of carrier-based and future combat aircraft. The Navy describes the missile as a next-generation air-intercept weapon aimed at expanding the reach of defense capabilities.
The AIM-424 Long Range Air-to-Air Missile (LRAAM) is capable of engaging threats up to 460 kilometers away, significantly surpassing conventional beyond-visual-range weapons like the AIM-120 AMRAAM. With a length of 13.5 feet, a diameter of 13.5 inches, and a wingspan of 26.2 inches, the missile weighs 1,500 pounds and uses a solid-propellant rocket motor. It carries a blast-fragmentation warhead, ensuring lethal accuracy in air-to-air combat.
While the Navy has not released detailed information on guidance, targeting, or deployment timelines, Raytheon President Phil Jasper emphasized that the Malice missile represents a "generational leap in air dominance combat capability." The missile is intended for fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-generation aircraft, including the F/A-18E/F and F-35C Lightning II. The main threat it aims to deter is China, which has been expanding its military capabilities with long-range anti-ship missiles.
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