AMRAAM vs AMRAAMSKI, answers please

tripwire SG

i noticed that the size of both the AMRAAM and AMRAAMSKI appears similar...

both are 3.6 meters long and AMRAAM is only 2cm shorter than AMRAAMSKI when it comes to diameter...200mm vs 180mm.

AMRAAM also carries a smaller warhead...

so... assuming that both uses similar rocket engine and fuel...

how come AMRAAMSKI can fly twice as far??

Shotgun SG

The AMRAAMs official range is no longer what it was reported to be. Actual range is not known, unless u are a pilot.

Also, must consider the speed of the missile. Perhaps the Adder burns longer, but at a slower rate, but the AMRAAMs bursts instantaneously?

tripwire SG

but the AMRAAMSKI flies at mach 4...

dont tell me the AMRAAM flies at mach 10 Exclamation

Shotgun SG

I have no idea how fast the AMRAAMs are. Maybe can do a bit of webcrawling and find out. Thats just my speculation.

technowizardry SG

I'd say... the russians are better in exotic rocket composite fuels and aerodynamics. The 'potato masher' control surfaces has no analogue in the West.

But there are also more things to consider other than maximum speed and range. You have to think about EW susceptibility, tactics etc.

tripwire SG

indeed i agreed...

furthermore.. wont the potato masher fins increases drags by a substantial amount... thus reducing both the missile's range and speed?

while different fuel type is a possibility, but surely if that exotic fuel type is so much better then the one currently in use in AMRAAM, wont the americans be dumb not to use it as well?

technowizardry SG

The potato masher fins are for controllability at high mach numbers. No point going so fast if your control surfaces can't work. An M16 bullet goes at around the same speed as that missile...

Secondly, even if the russians were to make the exact formula of the compound public knowledge, you still have to have the industrial complex to make it, which takes some time to develop. For example, even if we have the blueprints to the F404 engine, we still don't have the capability to make it, especially the hi-temp turbine blades.

SingaporeTyrannosaur SG

Americans have money, that’s their greatest advantage of all.

Shotgun SG

The advantage of the AMRAAM is the versatility. A single AMRAAM being able to operate and switch from one mode of tracking to another. It improves the kill probability by lots. From Semi-Active, to Active, Home-on-Jam, almost a mode for every occassion.

So far, I have no clue what software runs in the Adder. Whether is it as versatile or not. All I know its an active radar guided missile, with good range and can handle lots of gs.

However, being able to make hard g' turns may not be favorable after all, unless it is able to propel it self again after making such a turn.