Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
After years of speculation and covert operations, the U.S. Navy has finally unveiled a significant advancement in its air-to-air missile capabilities. The AIM-174, an air-launched variant of the versatile SM-6 missile, has been showcased on F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighters at the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. This article provides a comprehensive technical analysis, personal insights, and comparative evaluations of this formidable weapon system.
For years, defense analysts and enthusiasts have speculated about a long-range air-to-air missile being developed by the U.S. Navy. This speculation has been fueled by occasional sightings and hints from military exercises. According to a report by the War Zone News, the recent appearance of the AIM-174B at the RIMPAC exercise, the largest international maritime exercise, marks a significant milestone in these developments. The designation AIM-174B suggests a missile with unprecedented range and capabilities, capable of engaging high-priority ground targets and warships in addition to its primary air-to-air role.
Former Commander, Army Futures Command, Ret. Gen. John Murray
Photographer aeros808 on Instagram captured images of an F/A-18E from Strike Fighter Squadron 192 (VFA-192), known as the “Golden Dragons,” carrying a pair of these missiles at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. These missiles, marked as inert for training purposes, sport the NAIM-174B designation and are painted gray, a departure from the orange-colored versions seen in previous years. The presence of these missiles during RIMPAC is noteworthy, hinting at possible live-fire exercises and tactics testing. The AIM-174B missile is a significant evolution of the surface-launched SM-6, also known as the RIM-174. The SM-6 is renowned for its versatility, capable of intercepting both air-breathing and ballistic missile threats at long ranges. The AIM-174B, by extension, retains these capabilities and introduces additional functionalities suited for air-launch scenarios.
Key Features of the AIM-174B
1. Extended Range: The air-launched version benefits from the altitude and speed of the launching aircraft, providing a significant range advantage over the surface-launched variant. While the SM-6 has a surface-launched range of approximately 230 miles, the AIM-174B is expected to exceed this, potentially reaching hundreds of miles in air-to-air engagements.
2. Multi-Role Capability: In addition to its primary air-to-air function, the AIM-174B can strike high-value ground and maritime targets, functioning as a quasi-ballistic missile. This dual-role capability enhances the operational flexibility of the Super Hornet, allowing it to engage a wide variety of targets.
3. Networked Warfare: The missile is integrated into the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) architecture. This networked approach allows the AIM-174B to receive targeting data from various platforms, such as the F-35 stealth fighter, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, and Aegis-equipped warships. This integration enables the Super Hornet to engage targets beyond its own radar range, significantly extending its combat reach.
4. Enhanced Kinetics: Launched from a fighter jet at speed and altitude, the AIM-174B exhibits superior kinematics compared to the surface-launched SM-6. This results in higher velocity and better maneuverability, making it more effective against agile aerial targets.
You see, the AIM-174B provides the Super Hornet with the ability to engage enemy aircraft, including bombers, reconnaissance planes, and refueling tankers, at extreme ranges. This capability is vital for maintaining air superiority in contested environments. In addition, the Navy can project power and deter potential adversaries by equipping the Super Hornet with a missile capable of striking high-value ground and maritime targets. The missile’s range and speed make it a credible threat to enemy infrastructure and naval assets.
Likewise, the AIM-174B’s versatility allows it to be used in various mission profiles, from air defense suppression to anti-ship warfare. This flexibility is essential for adapting to dynamic battlefield conditions and achieving mission objectives. The AIM-174B’s development and deployment underscore the importance of continuous innovation and adaptability in military technology. As adversaries develop their own advanced weapon systems, maintaining a technological edge is crucial for ensuring national security and protecting global interests. The AIM-174B is a testament to the U.S. Navy’s commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare.
