Description:
The AIM-54 Phoenix was a long range air-to-air missile used exclusively on the F-14 Tomcat aircraft, which development began in 1960. AIM-54A was introduced in 1974. Phoenix is an active radar seeker missile designed to engage up to six targets near simultaneously in all weather conditions and heavy jamming environments. It was provided with a 135-pound warhead and a proximity fuse (it can detonate on impact).
The Phoenix missile, once launched, was guided in a semi-active radar mode, supported on F-14's AWG-9 radar. When close to the target, Phoenix's active radar seeker took over guidance command. Phoenix-armed F-14s provided a formidable, long range air defense for US Navy's strike groups and attack aircraft.
The AIM-54C was an improved Phoenix missile with special features to better counter tactical aircraft and cruise missiles. It was introduced to the US Navy fleet in 1981 and entered full rate production in 1984. The US Navy officially retired the Phoenix missile on September 30, 2004 after 30 years of successful active service.
Specifications Dimensions: Diameter 380 mm, Length 3.9 m, Width 900 mm
Weights: Max Weight 461 kg (1,016 lb), Warhead 61 kg (134 lb)
Performance: Max Range 180 km (97 nm), Top Speed 1,530 mps (Mach 4.61)
United States of America