'Aim-120 AMRAAM derivative could be used as ASAT weapon'

Published: Apr 01, 2008
Source: www.aviationweek.com



David Fulghum of Aviation Week's Ares blog wrote an interesting article about new capabilities being developed for the AIM-120 AMRAAM missile. It could, however, also be used as an ASAT weapon.

A derivative of the missile, which is widely used by the US Air Force, is being developed to intercept 'Scud-type short and medium-range ballistic missiles'.

Fulghum quotes an Air Force General, who said:

“If you put the missile in an F-22 and launch it at Mach 2 and 60,000 ft. while in a zoom and at a 45-degree angle, you’ve got an ASAT capability against spacecraft in low-earth orbit,”.continue..