Pentagon Arms F-35 with AGM-88G Missile to “Blind” Enemy Air Defenses

By Johnny Franks, Warrior Editorial Fellow

Supported by a Pentagon contract exceeding $97 million, Lockheed Martin recently took a significant step to embed a new air defense suppression missile within all variants of the F-35 stealth fighter. This initiative, instrumental in the aerospace domain, is the integration of Northrop Grumman’s AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile into the F-35s.

The AGM-88G, a munition epitomizing precision and technological sophistication, is engineered to seek and dismantle enemy air defense radars by homing in on their electromagnetic signatures. This capability is pivotal for missions targeting the suppression or destruction of enemy air defenses. This missile surpasses its predecessor, the AGM-88E, in terms of integration compatibility with the F-35’s internal weapon bays, a crucial factor in maintaining the stealth features of the aircraft. This integration goes beyond the confines of the US military, extending to foreign military sales and encompassing nations such as Australia, Canada, the UK, Norway, Italy, the Netherlands, and Denmark.

As discussed, the AGM-88G operates with an advanced electromagnetic spectrum analyzer, which diligently scans and identifies enemy air defense radars by analyzing their distinct electromagnetic emissions. Using intricate signal processing algorithms, the missile dynamically adjusts its flight path to precisely target the source of these emissions with exceptional accuracy. Furthermore, this missile class boasts a high-speed data link that enables real-time communication with external sensors and command centers, allowing it to receive up-to-the-minute target information and adapt its trajectory accordingly. Once locked onto its target, the missile’s meticulously engineered warhead is deployed to incapacitate the identified radar system, effectively disrupting enemy air defenses. This fusion of cutting-edge sensors, real-time connectivity, and pinpoint targeting capabilities exemplifies the AGM-88G’s prowess and underscores its crucial role in maintaining the F-35’s dominance in an era marked by rapid technological advancements and complex operational environments. The integration of the AGM-88G into the F-35 fleet not only elevates the aircraft’s operational capabilities but also underscores the strategic imperative of maintaining US military superiority in an evolving global defense landscape.

Incorporating the AGM-88G into the F-35 fleet fortifies the United States’ aerial combat prowess, particularly in light of the technological strides made by other major powers like Russia and China. This advancement, which counters the advancements in Russian Su-57 and Chinese J-20 stealth fighters, is akin to the strategic maneuvers in international economics and politics. The AGM-88G’s capability to neutralize sophisticated air defenses enhances the F-35’s effectiveness in complex environments, ensuring US air superiority in an era marked by rapid military advancements and strategic challenges akin to those faced in international economic reform.

Johnny Franks holds an MA in U.S. Foreign Policy & National Security from American University and a BA in Diplomacy & World Affairs from Occidental College. With a specific interest in geopolitical security and military technology, Johnny has primarily focused his research and analysis on the Russia-Ukraine conflict from 2014 onwards. . As part of his MA coursework, Johnny contributed to developing an Arctic defense strategy in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense.