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2024-10-03 Science & Technology

AIM-174B Loadout Brings Back U.S. Navy’s Cold War Roots

[NavalNews] The U.S. Navy's return to VLRAAMs offers a glimpse into the envisioned strategy to overcome the 'tyranny of distance' in the Pacific.

by Carter Johnston

Another sighting of the AIM-174B, this time at Point Mugu Naval Air Station, is offering a look at what the future of naval aviation air warfare operations could look like in a high intensity conflict, bringing back hints of the U.S. Navy’s past in great power competition.

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from Test and Evaluation Squadron 9 (VX-9), the primary test squadron for the AIM-174B, was spotted by father-son Instagram duo Mark and Taj of @point_mugu_skies. Fully loaded, the F/A-18F was carrying four CATM-174Bs, three CATM-120Ds, two CATM-9Xs, and a centerline fuel tank with the IRST-21 infrared-search-and-track system.

Operationally, this would offer a Super Hornet unparalleled capabilities for long-range engagements with four AIM-174Bs, backed up by AIM-120Ds that are reportedly approaching the threshold range for AIM-260 JATM range requirements–potentially up to 190 kilometers (120 miles).

The U.S. Navy’s investment into these advanced capabilities and longer ranges is another example of the evolving Carrier Air Wing concept heading into the late 2020s. Naval News previously reported on concept that was highlighted at this year’s Rim of the Pacific Exercise. The debut of operational AIM-174Bs in the U.S. Navy, which received significant press coverage during their appearance at RIMPAC 2024, marks a significant change in carrier air power.
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Posted by badanov 2024-10-03 00:00|| || Front Page|| [11159 views ] Top

Posted by Skidmark 2024-10-03 00:48|| 2024-10-03 00:48|| Front Page Top

#2 The most formidable of these models is the newest design: the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Model E takes a single pilot while the F has a second seat for a weapons system officer.Oct 19, 2023

Posted by S MAI 2024-10-03 07:55|| 2024-10-03 07:55|| Front Page Top

#3 I would have loved to have been in the meeting where they pitched the idea of the AIM-174.

Hey guys, we have these tube launched SM-6s from our boats, right? Hear me out. What if we stuck one on the bottom of an F-18 and make a long range anti-air missile with it?

Posted by DarthVader 2024-10-03 11:14|| 2024-10-03 11:14|| Front Page Top

#4 Watch your mouth, Darth! Boats are subs, targets are ships.

Posted by `AlmostAmonymous5839 2024-10-03 17:50|| 2024-10-03 17:50|| Front Page Top

#5 I'm a grunt. I don't know the difference. It goes in the water it is a boat. ;)

Posted by DarthVader 2024-10-03 21:14|| 2024-10-03 21:14|| Front Page Top

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