Un nuovo sistema missilistico




US, Italy to Develop Offensive Air-to-Ground Missile System

On 16 November 2005, US and Italian defense contractors announced their partnership to develop the Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM). The AARGM is a medium range, air-launched, supersonic missile capable of destroying an enemy's air defenses. The AARGM will replace the High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM), which uses the enemy's radar signals as its tracking device. What makes the AARGM noteworthy is its capability to strike an air defense installation even if the enemy shuts off its radar.

The AARGM, considered an offensive weapon useful when invading another nation's airspace, will be the most advanced such weapon when it enters service. The Italian government has agreed to provide $20 million for development, and will purchase approximately 250 missiles once in production. The US Navy is expected to procure about 1,700 missiles. Other allied nations are expected to purchase the missile to replace their HARM systems. Sources: Depass, Dee, "Italians join effort on Alliant missile," Star Tribune, 16 November 2005; "Italy Joing ATK and the US Navy in the Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile Development Program," ATK Press Release, 16 November 2005.