USAF has awarded Boeing a $4.2 million contract to work Phase 2 of the Dual Role Air Dominance Missile technology effort, one of several expected to lead to a Joint Dual Role Air Dominance Missile for the Air Force and Navy. The JDRADM is expected to combine both air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities in one missile. A Boeing release states that the DRADM technology effort focuses on developing the missile’s propulsion and control systems, and Phase 2 would refine those technologies, leading to lab and ground testing. JDRADM is a potential follow-on to the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile.
The Air Force is spending heavily on F-22 improvements through the end of the decade, suggesting it may not retire the jet in 2030 as it previously planned. New sensors, fuel tanks, communications, and electronic warfare systems are among the upgrades that comprise the package.