OVERVIEW: The AIM-120D AMRAAM (also designated AIM-120C-8) is a beyond-visual-range, fire-and-forget, active radar-guided air-to-air missile with datalink capability.

DETAILS: Entering service in the early 2010s, the AIM-120D represents the most advanced variant of the AMRAAM family. Developed as part of the P3I Phase 4 upgrade, with an 18–20 kg blast-fragmentation warhead, major enhancements to range and accuracy, the D-model features significant software and hardware improvements over earlier variants. These include a two-way datalink for in-flight targeting updates, an upgraded GPS-assisted inertial navigation system, and enhanced kinematic performance. Its seeker boasts refined signal processing for better target discrimination and ECCM performance in contested environments.

The missile retains the clipped-fin design for compatibility with internal weapons bays of stealth aircraft like the F-22 and F-35. It offers an extended maximum range and a larger no-escape zone compared to previous versions, significantly increasing pilot survivability and lethality in modern air combat.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Guidance: Inertial + GPS-aided mid-course guidance; two-way datalink; active radar terminal homing
Warhead: 18–20 kg WDU-41/B blast-fragmentation with FZU-49/B proximity/impact fuze
Length: 3.66 m
Diameter: 178 mm
Wingspan: ~0.45 m
Weight: ~162 kg
Platforms: F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22, F-35, Eurofighter Typhoon, Gripen (via integration), and others

Range: ~86nm (160 km) (estimated, exact classified)
Speed: ~Mach 4
Maneuverability: +40 G

NOTES:
IOC: 2015
Operators: United States, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Poland, Norway, United Kingdom, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Qatar, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Finland, Canada, Romania
Interesting Fact: The AIM-120D’s two-way datalink allows real-time communication with the launch platform, enabling retargeting and engagement flexibility mid-flight an unprecedented capability among legacy AMRAAMs.

SOURCES:
Raytheon; Official United States Air Force Website; Federation of American Scientists; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database; UNCLASSIFIED Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) 2018; Jane's Air-Launched Weapons; Army Recognition Group Magazine; deagel.com; en.missilery.info