Raytheon is nearing a critical milestone with its AIM-9X evolved Sidewinder, with the U.S. Navy to decide in September whether to start production of the short-range air-to-air missile.

Leading up to the Pentagon review that will determine whether the production go-ahead is granted, Raytheon is nearing completion of an extensive test program for the missile. It has involved 13 separation and control test vehicles and nine guided shots during the past 16 months. The company said here that it's successfully completed a production readiness review for the system.

"AIM-9X continues to demonstrate its ability to perform in challenging combat-realistic scenarios, with seven kills to date in developmental and operational tests," said Captain Dave Venlet, the Navy's air-to-air program manager.

While U.S. Navy and Air Force production would come first, the company already has begun pursuing international orders. "We've been actively involved in response to U.S. interest and from allies," said Bill West, Raytheon's director of air-to-air business development. A set of presentations has been given to the members of the European F-16 consortium, Switzerland, and South Korea.
But winning international orders will be difficult, since the short-range air-to-air market is saturated, being served by Matra BAe Dynamics with ASRAAM, the Israeli Python IV, and the Zvezda R-73 (AA-11 Archer), while Germany is developing the IRIS-T, and South Africa is working on the Darter.

The AIM-9X high off-boresight missile with an imaging infrared missile is designed to be used in conjunction with a helmet-mounted cueing system, although it doesn't have to be, Raytheon officials note.

By Robert Wall