On September 16, 2025, Raytheon announced that the U.S. Air Force successfully conducted the longest-known AIM-120 AMRAAM launch from an F-22 Raptor at Eglin Air Force Base. The test validated the missile’s extended flight profile under the Form, Fit, Function Refresh (F3R) upgrades, demonstrating performance beyond previous benchmarks.
The AIM-120 AMRAAM has been a cornerstone of Western air superiority for over three decades. This beyond-visual-range, radar-guided missile has been deployed across 14 platforms by the U.S. and allied nations. The D-3 variant tested on the F-22 appears to exceed the 160–180 km range under optimal conditions, confirming its enhanced capabilities.
The extended range provides tactical and strategic benefits. Fifth-generation fighters like the F-22 and F-35 can engage targets before entering hostile missile envelopes. The upgraded AMRAAM maintains Western credibility against emerging threats, including China’s PL-15 and Russia’s R-37M. The test underscores the U.S. commitment to preserving air dominance, particularly in Indo-Pacific theaters where long-range engagements are increasingly critical.
AMRAAM continues to be a central program for Raytheon, supporting both U.S. and allied modernization. This milestone confirms that the missile remains relevant, adaptable, and a key factor in shaping global airpower for years to come.
