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

What is known

Earlier this month, the Italian Air Force sent two fifth-generation fighter jets to Orland Air Base in Norway. The F-35 Lightning II aircraft of the Royal Norwegian Air Force, which took part in the Arctic Challenge 2023, are also deployed here.

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

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

The F-35 Lightning II will reach full combat readiness during 2023. The Italian Air Force said that the AIM-120 test launches carried out as part of the Arctic Challenge 2023 were an important step in this direction.

Source: The Aviationist