F-35 Lightning II launches AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles for the first time while participating in Arctic Challenge 2023

The Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets took part in the Arctic Challenge 2023 exercise. As part of the event, they made their first launches of AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles.

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Earlier this month, the Italian Air Force sent two fifth-generation fighters to Orland Air Base in Norway. The Royal Norwegian Air Force's F-35 Lightning II, which took part in the Arctic Challenge 2023, is also stationed there.

Italian Air Force fighters carried out the first launches of AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles. The munitions were launched at two guided targets that were located within the range off the west coast of Norway. Both targets were successfully destroyed.

The Italian Air Force stated that the AIM-120 AMRAAM launches confirmed not only the very high level of training and competence, but also the exceptional reliability and effectiveness of the F-35 Lightning II. The aircraft were able to detect, identify and destroy targets with maximum precision.

The F-35 Lightning II will reach full operational capability during 2023. The Italian Air Force said the AIM-120 test firing in Arctic Challenge 2023 was an important step in this direction.

Source: The Aviationist