US Approves Sale of Northrop Grumman AARGM-ER Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles to Australia.

On September 27, 2024, the United States government approved a potential sale of Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) to Australia, a key ally in the Western Pacific. This sale, estimated at $405 million, aims to enhance Australia's defense capabilities against emerging threats. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has formally notified Congress of this proposal.

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Northrop Grumman AARGM-ER Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (Picture source: Northrop Grumman)

Australia has expressed interest in acquiring up to one hundred (100) AARGM-ER missiles, equipped with a global positioning system (GPS) using advanced technologies such as the Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) or M-Code. The package also includes twenty-four guidance sections and an equal number of control sections as spare parts. Additionally, the contract includes several non-MDE (non-Major Defense Equipment) items, such as missile containers, support parts, classified and unclassified software, as well as technical training for Australian forces. The main contractor for this project will be Northrop Grumman Systems.

This partnership with Australia is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the presence and security of U.S. allies in the Asia-Pacific region. As a major strategic ally, Australia plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific. For the United States, supporting the development of Australia's defense capabilities is essential to preserving a balance of power in this sensitive geopolitical area.

The implementation of this sale will require the temporary presence of four U.S. government representatives and one contractor, who will travel to Australia to oversee technical supervision and conduct program reviews. 

The AARGM-ER (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range) is the result of a U.S. development program to modernize suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) capabilities. It was designed to address the challenges posed by modern air defense systems, which are becoming increasingly sophisticated, such as the advanced radar and anti-aircraft batteries found notably in China and Russia. The AARGM-ER is an upgraded version of the AGM-88 HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile), which has been used for decades by the U.S. military to neutralize enemy radar. This development is part of a broader effort to maintain air superiority for allied forces by enabling them to operate in contested environments where enemy radars pose a significant threat to tactical aircraft. The missile can be launched from various combat aircraft, including the F/A-18 Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, and F-35, making it a versatile weapon integrated into the most modern weapons systems.

Operationally, the AARGM-ER offers significantly enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessors. With extended range, it can be launched from long distances, reducing risks to the launch platforms. It uses a combination of guidance systems, including GPS with anti-jamming modules such as SAASM or M-Code, allowing it to locate and engage radar emitters with great precision, even if they attempt to hide or relocate. In addition to its ability to detect and destroy land- and sea-based radars, the AARGM-ER enhances the survivability of air forces by disrupting enemy defense systems before they can target allied aircraft. Its compatibility with 5th generation fighter jets, such as the F-35, makes it a crucial asset for electronic warfare and air superiority missions, where neutralizing enemy defense systems is essential.