Australia to acquire additional AGM-88G AARGM-ER Anti-Radiation Missiles

Defence is investing up to $650 million to acquire additional stocks of the AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missile, which is designed to detect, attack and destroy enemy radar systems. The Defence announcement didn’t say when these weapons will be delivered.

This investment comes in addition to the $431 million AARGM-ER purchase announced by Defence in 2023 and will increase the warstocks and deterrent capability of the Australian Defence Force, says Defence in a statement. In 2017 the RAAF is also understood to have ordered some 70 AGM-88B and 40 AGM-88E HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missiles), from which AARGM-ER is derived, for use on its EA-18G Growlers.

The Mach 2+ AARGM-ER will be launched from RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft and, in the future, Australia’s F-35A Lightning II. Its range is not disclosed but is believed to be around 300km.

“These world class missiles will improve the range, survivability and effectiveness of our Air Force to find and destroy enemy radars,” said Pat Conroy, Minister for defence Industry and Capability Delivery.

“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.”

The missiles will be acquired through the US Government’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) procurement process.

“Australia and the United States continue to work as closely as ever, and the Alliance between our two countries ensures Australians are kept safe and our national interests are defended,” according to Richard Marles, Minister for Defence and Deputy Prime Minister.

This investment reflects one of the priorities listed in the 2024 National Defence Strategy which called for much stronger spending on Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance and a significant increase in the ADF’s warstocks.