Americans Unveil New Long-Range Missile: 'Malice' Offers Major Advantage

The U.S. Navy has officially revealed its latest long-range air-to-air missile, the AIM-424 LRAAM, codenamed "Malice." This new weapon is set to significantly enhance the combat capabilities of naval and Marine Corps pilots by extending engagement ranges against advanced threats.

The missile was introduced on August 22, 2026, at the Tailhook Symposium in Reno, Nevada. Initial details and photographs emerged through publications like The Aviation Week and official U.S. Navy channels, including the Fact Files section of its website and the DVIDS (Digital Visual Information System). Images show training variants of the AIM-424 mounted on F/A-18E Super Hornets and an F-35C Lightning II.

Developed by Raytheon, the AIM-424 is designed for integration with the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-35C Lightning II, and the future F/A-XX fighter jet. The U.S. Navy states its purpose is to "strengthen fleet defense and maintain decisive air superiority against advanced threats."

Measuring 4.11 meters (13.5 feet) in length with a diameter of 34 centimeters, the AIM-424 is shorter than the previously revealed AIM-174B Gunslinger. Crucially, its dimensions allow it to fit inside the internal weapons bay of the F-35C, a significant advantage that enables the aircraft to maintain its stealth characteristics while carrying advanced weaponry. The missile's operational range is reported to exceed 250 nautical miles (over 463 kilometers), positioning it as a formidable asset in aerial combat.

“

strengthen fleet defense and maintain decisive air superiority against advanced threats.