The U.S. Air Force has tested a new air-to-ground tactical missile, the SiAW (Stand-in Attack Weapon).

This is reported on the official website of the Eglin Air Force Base.

These tests were the first in a program to develop a new tactical missile designed for high-speed strikes on various targets, including moving ones.

An F-16C fighter jet from the 40th Test Squadron was used for the tests. It flew with a missile simulator to test the aerodynamic characteristics and correct projectile separation during the drop.

SiAW is based on the AARGM-ER anti-radiation missile. Although the range of the new product has not been officially disclosed, it can be roughly estimated based on the characteristics of the anti-radar version, which is about 300 km.

The missile will have a new guidance system capable of capturing and engaging moving targets. First of all, it is an infrared homing system that will ensure accurate target acquisition at the final stage of flight.

The missile will be launched at supersonic speed, which creates significant difficulties for standard army air defense systems to intercept it.

Northrop Grumman is developing the missile. The project was launched in 2022 under the terms of reference of the U.S. Air Force to create a weapon capable of striking in the presence of powerful enemy air defense.

In 2023, Northrop Grumman won a $705 million contract to develop the SiAW, which is to be completed in 2026-2027.

In addition, it is planned to integrate the new missile on the F-35 fighter jet, as well as on other platforms that will be selected in the next stages of the program.

In the future, the plan is to integrate the missile on new B-21 strategic bombers, F-15E fighter jets, and F/A-18 Super Hornet deck-launched fighters.

Militarnyi previously reported that the American company Lockheed Martin had developed a new version of the JASSM-XR cruise missile with an extended range.