Navy Pursues New Anti-Radar Missile for F-18 and F-35 Aircraft

Key Takeaways

The U.S. Navy plans to develop the Advanced Emission Suppression Missile (AESM) with a longer range than current anti-radiation weapons.
The AESM aims to be compatible with existing aircraft and may be ordered at a rate of up to 300 missiles per year.
Submission for proposals is due by March 18, 2026, with a required Technology Readiness Level of at least TRL 7.

Next-Generation Anti-Radiation Missile Development

The U.S. Navy is moving forward with plans for a new anti-radiation missile, the Advanced Emission Suppression Missile (AESM), designed to exceed the range of current models. According to the Navy’s Sources Sought notice, the AESM must be compatible with the existing inventory of launch platforms, which includes the F-18 and F-35 aircraft. The aim is to produce up to 300 missiles annually, with initial deployments expected within two years following the awarding of a contract.

While the notice does not explicitly mention the AGM-88 High Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM), first deployed in the 1980s and still in use today, it does indicate a need for a next-generation solution. The AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile Extended Range (AARGM-ER) is currently undergoing testing and offers a significantly longer range than the HARM, which can reach up to 80 miles, contingent upon the launch aircraft’s altitude.

The Navy’s focus on modernizing its anti-radiation capabilities stems from the evolving nature of radar systems, which are increasingly designed to reduce their vulnerability to such weapons. The AESM is expected to incorporate advanced features including a seeker with extensive frequency coverage, GPS and INS guidance, and alternative navigation systems that remain effective despite jamming. The missile is also intended to engage both ground and air targets, enhancing its operational versatility.

Notably, the Navy emphasized the AESM’s potential for pre-emptive targeting capabilities. This feature is critical in countering advanced radar systems that seek to evade detection and neutralization. The missile system is planned for use on various aircraft, including the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G, with an open architecture designed to accommodate future aircraft models, ensuring the system remains flexible and up-to-date.

For suppliers interested in the AESM project, the submission deadline for proposals is March 18, 2026. The Navy requires that the missile’s Technology Readiness Level be at least TRL 7, indicating that a prototype should be ready for demonstration in an operational environment.

In summary, the development of the AESM marks a key step in enhancing the U.S. Navy’s arsenal of anti-radiation weapons, aiming for improved range and capability to meet modern warfare challenges.

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