Also Known As:
AIM-9A, AIM-9B, AIM-9G, AIM-9H, AIM-9J, AIM-9L, AIM-9P, AIM-9P-1
Origin:United States of America
Contractor/s:
Raytheon
Description:
The AIM-9 missile is a supersonic, heat-guided, air-to-air missile carried by most western fighter aircraft. It was introduced in 1956 (AIM-9B).
This missile is used for self-defense purposes in close range combat situation, less than 20 kilometers, also known as dogfight. Once the AIM-9 has been launched its seeker follows the heat signature of the enemy's aircraft engines. Current AIM-9 blast fragmentation warhead detonates by proximity.
The AIM-9M Sidewinder missile was introduced in 1983. It retains all-aspect capability of the L model but providing higher performance. The M model has improved defense against IR countermeasures, enhanced background discrimination capability, and a reduced smoke rocket motor.
Specifications Dimensions: Diameter 120 mm, Length 2.9 m, Width 630 mm
Weights: Max Weight 86 kg (190 lb), Warhead 10 kg (22 lb)
Performance: Max Range 26,000 m (85,302 ft), Top Speed 850 mps (Mach 2.56)
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Canada
Denmark
Egypt
Germany
Greece
Israel
Italy
Japan
Jordan
Kuwait
Malaysia
Netherlands
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Portugal
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Taiwan
Turkey
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States of America