The U.S. Navy is developing a new long-range air-to-air missile, designated the AIM-424 LRAAM and nicknamed "MALICE," intended to neutralize enemy aircraft and drones from extreme distances. The missile aims to enhance the survivability and tactical flexibility of naval aviators by allowing them to engage targets before coming within close proximity.
The MALICE missile is designed to be launched from fighter jets to intercept adversary aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicles at ranges exceeding 250 nautical miles, approximately 287 statute miles. This extended range enables pilots to detect and engage threats from well beyond the horizon, potentially protecting fighter jets and aircraft carriers from long-range attacks.
With a length of 13.5 feet and a weight of 1,500 pounds, the AIM-424 is significantly larger than current medium-range missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM, which weighs around 335 pounds. This increased size is attributed to the substantial propulsion system required for its long-range capabilities.
The weapon features a blast-fragmentation warhead, which can disable or destroy a target by detonating near it and dispersing fragments, rather than requiring a direct hit. The Navy stated that the LRAAM is designed to sustain the force's "first look, first shot, first kill" advantage, providing aviators with greater reach, survivability, and tactical flexibility in air-to-air combat.
The AIM-424 LRAAM is being developed by Raytheon and is intended to be compatible with various fighter generations, including current fourth and fifth-generation aircraft, as well as future sixth-generation platforms. This compatibility aims to increase the range, lethality, and combat effectiveness for both Navy and Marine aviation forces.