aerobd.news : In a joint U.S. Air Force-Navy test, a F-35A intercepted an airborne target using a Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) AIM-9X® Block I, the first short-range, air-to-air missile to be integrated on the next-generation fighter. The test proved the AIM-9X’s ‘end-to-end’ system capability on the F-35, from loading through target intercept.

“The aircraft and missile must work together, communicating and sharing data, to intercept a target,” said Mark Justus, AIM-9X program director for Raytheon Missile Systems. “AIM-9X and many of Raytheon’s other air-launched weapons will provide next-generation fire power for the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft.”

The F-35 can carry two AIM-9X missiles on its wings and four AIM-120s internally when configured for an air dominance mission. The AIM-9X is on track for integration across the F-35 fleet in 2017.

About AIM-9X

• AIM-9X is a U.S. Navy-led, joint U.S. Navy, Air Force program.
• Raytheon has been producing AIM-9X missiles for more than 14 years.
• AIM-9X entered operational service in 2003; international deliveries began in 2005
• AIM-9X currently has 20 international customers. This includes nine original Block I customers, followed by 11 new and five repeat Block II customers.

About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2015 sales of $23 billion and 61,000 employees, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, civil government and cybersecurity solutions. With a history of innovation spanning 94 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration, C5ITM products and services, sensing, effects, and mission support for customers in more than 80 countries. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. Visit us at www.raytheon.com and follow us on Twitter @Raytheon