How AIM-174B missile, onboard the US Navy's F-18 Super Hornet Is A Gamechanger in Indo-Pacific

Washington, USA – U.S. Navy's recent deployment of AIM-174B missile aboard its F-18 Super Hornet aircraft is hailed as a potential game-changer in Indo-Pacific region. This new, extremely long-range air-to-air missile, developed from Rayon's SM-6 air defence missile, could neutralize China’s vantage in aerial reach, according to military experts.   

AIM-174B, officially acknowledged in July, stands out for its exceptional range, reportedly capable of striking aerial targets up to 400 kilometres (250 miles) away. This capability far surpasses that of AIM-120 AMRAAM, current standard U.S. long-range missile, which has a maximum range of approximately 150 kilometres (93 miles). AIM-174B’s extended reach allows U.S. aircraft to engage threats from a safer distance, keeping critical assets like aircraft carriers out of range of Chinese anti-ship missiles.   

Strategic vantage in Indo-Pacific  

Experts believe introduction of AIM-174B could significantly alter balance of power in Indo-Pacific. missile’s ability to outrange China's PL-15, carried by J-20 stealth fighter, enables U.S. forces to maintain a tactical vantage, particularly in contested regions like South China Sea. missile’s range not only allows for pre-emptive strikes on high-value Chinese targets, such as command-and-control aircraft but also reduces risk to U.S. carriers operating within first island chain—a region stretching from Indonesia to Japan.

Chieh Chung, a researcher at Association of Strategic Foresight in Taipei, remarked, " United States can ensure safety of ir important assets, such as carrier groups, and launch long-range strikes on PLA targets. AIM-174B lets U.S. push furr into contested areas, potentially changing Chinese behaviour."   

Rising Tensions Prompt Raising Stakes   

According to a report by Defence News, introduction of AIM-174B comes during heightened tensions in Indo-Pacific. U.S. and China have been at odds over various issues, including territorial disputes in South China Sea and Taiwan's security. presence of AIM-174B in U.S. arsenal could deter Chinese aggression by raising stakes in any potential conflict.

Kelly Grieco, a senior fellow at Stimson Center, pointed out that AIM-174B dresses a crucial gap in U.S. military’s capabilities. "With vent of Chinese stealth aircraft and PL-15 missile, U.S. needed a missile that could outrange and outmanoeuvre se threats. AIM-174B does just that," Grieco said.   

Operational Flexibility   

AIM-174B’s development as a derivative of SM-6 air defence missile offers several logistical vantages. missile can be produced using existing production lines, avoiding need for new manufacturing infrastructure. Moreover, its compatibility with F-18 Super Hornet, operated by both U.S. and Australian militaries, enhances missile’s operational flexibility in joint missions.   

Australia, a key U.S. ally in region, could also benefit from deployment of AIM-174B. missile’s integration into Australian forces would bolster ir ability to project power and contribute to regional security. An Australian defence ministry spokesperson confirmed that country is closely monitoring capabilities of AIM-174B for potential future acquisition.

deployment of AIM-174B is expected to have far-reaching implications for regional stability. By extending reach of U.S. airpower, missile could deter China from aggressive actions, particularly in South China Sea. U.S. Navy's ability to strike from a greater distance complicates Chinese military planning, forcing Beijing to reconsider its strategy in region.   

A senior U.S. defence analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized missile's strategic impact. " AIM-174B could force China to pull back its high-value aircraft, reducing ir effectiveness in a conflict scenario. This missile changes calculus for any regional confrontation," analyst said.   

While AIM-174B is currently operational with U.S. Navy, its future role in arsenals of or allied nations, including Australia, remains under consideration. introduction of AIM-174B is a clear indication of U.S. military's focus on maintaining dominance in Indo-Pacific. As region becomes increasingly contested, missile's long-range capabilities will be a critical factor in shaping future of regional security dynamics.