On August 31, 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) granted Raytheon Missiles and Defense a $192 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the acquisition of Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM). This contract marks a pivotal moment in the U.S.' ongoing military support for Ukraine, particularly in light of the forthcoming deployment of F-16 fighter jets to the Ukrainian Air Force.

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The AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, colloquially known as the "Slammer," is a state-of-the-art medium-range missile equipped with an active radar guidance system.  (Picture source: US DoD)

The AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, colloquially known as the "Slammer," is a medium-range missile equipped with an active radar guidance system. Depending on the specific model, its operational range varies from 75 to 160 km. The AIM-120C-8 version of the AMRAAM comes with an advanced radar guidance system, allowing it to track and engage aerial targets at considerable distances.

As of 2008, the AMRAAM has been the most widely deployed beyond-visual-range missile worldwide, with over 14,000 units produced for the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy, and 33 other international clients. Developed and manufactured by Raytheon Missiles and Defense, the AIM-120 series is renowned for its versatility, enabling pilots to engage enemy aircraft before visual contact is established.

In terms of tactical application, Ukraine stands to benefit from the AMRAAMs in multiple ways. First, these missiles can be fitted onto a range of aircraft, including Soviet-era models like the MiG-29, which are still in active service within the Ukrainian Air Force. This significantly enhances the capabilities of these older aircraft. Second, the AMRAAMs will be even more effective when integrated with the soon-to-arrive F-16s, thereby amplifying the tactical reach and flexibility of Ukraine's Air Force.