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Finland Strengthens F-35 Fleet with Acquisition of 150 AARGM-ER Missiles from United States.
The Finnish Ministry of Defense has confirmed the acquisition of Northrop Grumman's advanced AGM-88G Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles - Extended Range (AARGM-ER) to equip its future F-35 fighter fleet as of October 24, 2024. This acquisition, finalized a year after U.S. approval, marks an important step forward in Finland’s defense capabilities, especially in countering advanced ground-based air defense threats.
The Finnish F-35 will therefore be equipped with AARGM-ER missiles in the future. (Picture source: US Air Force)
The contract, valued at approximately $500 million, includes up to 150 AARGM-ER missiles. This advanced missile system is part of a broader package that includes inert training missiles (DATM), storage containers, essential software, training, support equipment, spare parts, and publications and technical documentation. The agreement also provides logistical support, with engineering teams from the U.S. government and partner companies facilitating integration and deployment.
The Finnish Ministry of Defense stated that AARGM-ER systems would be delivered per the operational schedule for the Finnish Air Force's F-35A. The first deliveries are expected between 2026 and 2030, ensuring compatibility with Finland's introduction of the F-35.
The Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile - Extended Range (AARGM-ER), AGM-88G, is an advanced air-to-ground missile developed by Northrop Grumman to target and neutralize enemy air defenses. Based on the AGM-88E AARGM model, AARGM-ER features an optimized airframe, a larger rocket motor, and advanced electronics, providing a significantly enhanced range and speed essential for countering modern long-range surface-to-air missile systems.
AARGM-ER’s operational profile focuses on neutralizing radar-based threats through an enhanced guidance system. This system combines passive homing sensors to detect radar emissions with an active millimeter-wave radar for terminal guidance, enabling precise targeting even if enemy radars attempt shutdown to avoid detection. This dual guidance capability makes the missile particularly effective against mobile air defense systems, enhancing its ability in Suppression and Destruction of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD/DEAD) missions.
Designed to fit within the internal weapons bay of the F-35, the AARGM-ER offers compatibility with multiple platforms, including the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler. This adaptability allows for deployment across U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps fleets. Initial tests began in 2021, demonstrating AARGM-ER’s capability to engage both mobile and stationary targets over long distances. The missile is now in low-rate initial production, with operational fielding expected soon.
This decision follows a recent U.S. authorization to sell up to 100 AARGM-ER missiles to the Royal Australian Air Force for its EA-18G Growler aircraft, reflecting growing interest from U.S. allies in this missile system to bolster their capabilities in suppressing enemy air defenses.