AIM-9X Sidewinder

The AIM-9X is the latest evolution of the Sidewinder family that has been the U.S. short-range dogfight missile since the 1950s. The X-variant introduces a thrust-vectoring control jet, a high off-boresight focal plane array seeker, and compatibility with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System so pilots can lock and launch well off the aircraft nose axis.

Block II adds lock-on-after-launch capability, a two-way datalink, and compatibility with internal carriage in the F-22 and F-35 weapons bays. The AIM-9X also serves as the base interceptor in the Army's IFPC Increment 2 air defense launcher and in the Navy's sea-based point defense fit.

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