AIM-120C Missile

Full Specifications

AIM-120C Advanced Medium Range Air Combat Missile

The AIM120C is one of the most widely used air to air missiles in US and allied fighter fleets. It was developed by Raytheon as part of the AMRAAM family to give pilots a reliable option for long range engagements. The C variant refined the design with clipped wings, improved electronics and better midcourse control. It is built for fighters such as the F15, F16, F18 and F35.

The missile uses an active radar seeker that lets pilots fire it and break away while the missile closes in on its own. It reaches high supersonic speeds and can engage targets in most weather and light conditions. The AIM120C is known for its compact form and strong resistance to countermeasures.

Performance and Capability

The missile carries a blast fragmentation warhead and is powered by a solid fuel motor. Typical engagement range varies with altitude and launch conditions, but the C models provide extended reach over older versions. The compact design also supports internal carriage on stealth aircraft.

The AIM120C has seen wide operational use over several decades. Its guidance system blends inertial control with radar updates from the launch aircraft. The seeker takes over in the final stage for target lock. This combination makes it reliable in crowded airspace.

The missile remains in production and is used by many US allies. It fits most US fighter pylons and works with both legacy and modern radar suites.

AIM-120C Missile Price

Pricing varies by batch and contract. US Foreign Military Sales records show that AMRAAM units often fall in the several hundred thousand dollar range per round depending on configuration and support items.