On October 23, 2024, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen authorized the acquisition of up to 150 AGM-88G AARGM-ER (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range) missiles to enhance the operational capabilities of Finland’s future fleet of 64 F-35A multirole fighters. These missiles are intended to improve the aircraft’s survivability when operating under the threat of Russian long-range anti-aircraft systems.
The AGM-88G AARGM-ER, developed by Northrop Grumman, is a radar-seeking missile that will complement the performance of the F-35A, which is set to replace Finland’s F/A-18 Hornet fleet. This procurement is part of the planned armament for the F-35A fighters, aligning with their deployment schedule in the Finnish Air Force. Finland’s acquisition of these missiles is the first of its kind in the country, and the need for this capability was identified during the bidding phase of the HX Fighter Program. A request for an exemption to purchase these missiles was made to the U.S. administration in 2018, and the U.S. Congress authorized the sale on October 23, 2023. Finland is one of the first foreign countries to be allowed to purchase the AARGM-ER missiles.
According to Colonel (retired) Henrik Elo, the Finnish F-35 project manager, the addition of AARGM-ER missiles will broaden the range of missions that the Air Force can undertake and will also improve the survivability of the F-35 fleet when operating in areas threatened by adversary air defense systems. This capability will support the protection of ground forces, naval assets, and critical societal infrastructure.
The acquisition is part of a broader U.S. Foreign Military Sale to Finland, which includes up to 150 AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles, Dummy Air Training Missiles (DATM), missile containers, software, training, spare parts, and other related logistics and program support, with a timeframe running from 2024 to 2031. The total estimated cost of the sale is $500 million. The principal contractor for this sale is Northrop Grumman Systems, and there are no known offset agreements associated with the deal. The sale is aimed at strengthening Finland’s defense capabilities and ensuring interoperability with U.S. and allied forces.
The AGM-88G AARGM-ER is a missile system designed to suppress and destroy enemy air defenses by targeting radar systems. It uses advanced radar-seeking technology and features a dual-pulse solid rocket motor that extends its range compared to earlier models. The missile is designed to fit in the internal weapons bays of the F-35A and F-35C fighters, though it cannot be carried internally by the F-35B due to space limitations. The AARGM-ER retains the warhead and guidance systems from previous models but incorporates a new airframe with redesigned control surfaces and aerodynamic strakes to enhance performance. The missile weighs 467 kilograms and is 4.06 meters long.
Development of the AARGM-ER began in 2016, and the missile has undergone multiple flight tests. In 2021, the system received Milestone-C approval, marking the start of low-rate initial production. The U.S. Navy has conducted several flight tests of the AARGM-ER, including tests in July 2021, January 2022, July 2022, December 2022, and May 2023 at the Point Mugu Sea Range in California. The missile is expected to achieve initial operational capability soon, with full-scale production planned for the near future.
This missile acquisition aligns with Finland’s broader defense modernization efforts, which include the ongoing HX Fighter Program. As part of this program, Finland has ordered 64 F-35A fighters to replace its fleet of F/A-18 Hornets. Deliveries of the F-35A are scheduled to begin in 2026. The integration of the AARGM-ER missiles into Finland’s F-35 fleet is expected to enhance the country’s ability to address current and future defense needs while maintaining close cooperation with NATO and other allied forces.
In addition to providing Finland with a new radar-seeking capability, the AARGM-ER missiles are designed to detect and counter radar systems, including those that attempt to evade targeting through shutdown tactics. This enhances the effectiveness of operations in environments where adversaries, such as Russia, rely on advanced air defense systems. Through this acquisition, Finland aims to maintain a robust defense posture, supported by advanced technology and strong alliances.
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