Introduced operationally in 1991, the Hughes AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) was designed as the replacement for the AIM-7 Sparrow. The AIM-7 had been designed from the beginning as a tool to be used against lumbering bombers flying at high altitudes. This design imposed a number of limitations on the missile - limitations, which became strikingly apparent in the skies over Vietnam when engaged against the small, agile MiG fighters. Though the Sparrow saw many improvements during the course of the conflict, it became evident that the design had run its course. The focus of the air campaign had shifted from defense against bombers to the role of air-superiority. A new missile would have to emerge to meet this new role.
One of the key lessons learned from the conflict was that a fighter would be likely to encounter multiple inbound targets. This would require the fighter to launch and guide several missiles simultaneously in order to ensure its survival. This had not been possible with the AIM-7, a missile which required a constant radar lock on the target it was directed against. In addition, as these fighters were capable of launching missiles of their own, the fighter must be free to maneuver after launch and still be confident that its missile will strike the target. The very nature of these targets also dictated that the new missile be particularly fast and maneuverable. Utilizing their experience in developing the AIM-54 Phoenix, Hughes Aircraft won the contract. Their AIM-120 would revolutionize how aerial warfare was conducted.
Today, the AIM-120 is carried on most operational U.S. military aircraft, as well as those of other nations as well. One noteworthy aircraft not equipped with the AMRAAM is the F-14 Tomcat. Rather than make the necessary hardware and software changes, the Navy has opted to have the Tomcats continue with their AIM-7 Sparrows. However, the entire Hornet community has been outfitted with the AIM-120, as will the future F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
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