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Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles and Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Minister Pat Conroy have announced a AU$650 million foreign military sale acquisition of additional Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range missiles.
This acquisition comes on the back of a AU$431 million order for Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missiles announced by the Australian government in August 2023 and will expand the nation’s critical munitions war stocks.
These supersonic air-launched missiles will be deployed from Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft and, in the future, on Australia’s F-35A Lightning II aircraft.
Minister Marles said, “This is the Albanese government delivering the capabilities needed for the Australian Defence Force. Australia and the United States continue to work as closely as ever; the alliance between our two countries ensures Australians are kept safe and our national interests are defended.”
The missiles will be acquired through the United States government’s foreign military sales procurement process, reflecting the close partnership with the United States.
Minister Conroy expanded on the Deputy Prime Minister’s comments, saying, “These world-class missiles will improve the range, survivability and effectiveness of our Air Force to find and destroy enemy radars.”
This investment is part of the Albanese government’s record investment in Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance, including war stock uplift, to deliver the priorities in the 2024 National Defence Strategy.
“The Albanese government is delivering its commitment to enhance Australia’s long-range strike capability, delivering on a key priority of the National Defence Strategy. This acquisition is a testament to Australia’s strong, long-standing alliance with the United States,” Minister Conroy said.
Northrop Grumman’s AARGM-ER is a supersonic, air-launched tactical missile system, designed to be the most advanced counter-air defence solution against modern surface-to-air threats.
Building on the proven capabilities of the AARGM, the extended range variant features a new high-performance airframe enhanced propulsion system and an advanced warhead. These upgrades provide a critical counter-air defence capability for the US Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and international partners, ensuring superior operational effectiveness in complex threat environments.
