Australia Successfully Fires LRASM Missile from Super Hornet
Australia has taken a significant leap in strengthening its maritime strike capabilities with the successful live firing of the AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM). This milestone marks a critical advancement in the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) ability to conduct long-range precision strikes against naval threats.
The live-fire test, conducted off the coast of California at the Point Mugu Sea Range, involved an RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet. Supported by the United States Navy, the operational test confirmed the missile’s readiness for deployment, validating its weapons preparation, loading, targeting, and successful engagement of a simulated maritime threat.
With a range exceeding 370 kilometers, the LRASM significantly enhances Australia’s ability to deter potential adversaries in the Indo-Pacific region. The missile is designed to autonomously locate and engage enemy warships, even in electronic warfare environments where traditional GPS guidance might be compromised.
The Albanese Government has allocated $895.5 million for the acquisition of LRASM, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to modernizing its defence forces. Over the next decade, a broader investment of $28–35 billion will be directed towards improving targeting and long-range strike capabilities across the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
During the operational test, an Australian E-7A Wedgetail and EA-18G Growler aircraft provided critical support, working alongside a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon. This collaboration with the United States underscores the strong defence partnership between the two allies and highlights the integration of cutting-edge military technologies in Australia’s strategic planning.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles emphasized the importance of such capabilities in safeguarding Australia’s maritime approaches. He noted that the LRASM would be deployed across the Super Hornet, Poseidon, and F-35 fleets, enhancing the ADF’s ability to respond to evolving regional security challenges.
Defence Minister Pat Conroy described the LRASM acquisition as a major step forward in strengthening Australia’s long-range strike capability. He reiterated the government’s focus on equipping the armed forces with the necessary tools to defend national interests effectively.
The LRASM itself is an advanced weapon derived from the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile Extended Range (JASSM-ER). Equipped with an anti-jam GPS system, radio frequency sensor, and infrared targeting, it operates with minimal reliance on external intelligence, making it highly effective in contested environments. Its low observability and ability to engage protected enemy ships under all weather conditions further enhance its strategic value.
This successful live-fire event marks a significant boost to Australia’s defence posture, aligning with its broader vision of maintaining a technologically superior and combat-ready military force in the Indo-Pacific region.
