US Navy's F-35C gains new AIM-424 missile with 463-km air-to-air range

The US Navy has unveiled the AIM-424, a new air-to-air missile developed specifically for use with the F-35C fighter jet. The missile offers a striking range of over 463 kilometres, substantially extending the aircraft's combat reach. Designed for internal carriage, the AIM-424 preserves the F-35C's stealth profile during operations. The addition of this missile marks a significant upgrade to the F-35C's overall combat effectiveness. The development comes as rival nations Russia and China continue to advance their own long-range missile technologies.