F-35 integrates Meteor missile: progress, TR-3 obstacles.
The F-35A has completed Meteor ground integration and is awaiting flight testing; the UK is leading the project, and Italy is providing funding. Obstacles related to Block 4 and TR-3 could delay development into the 2030s.
Ground integration of the Meteor long-range air-to-air missile for the F-35A has been completed, confirming the weapon can be deployed without affecting stealth capabilities. The next phase is flight testing, expected to begin after the completion of final ground tests. Previously, the Meteor underwent air trials with the F-35B variant in a UK-led program; the project for the F-35A is funded by Italy.
Overview of the F-35 Meteor Integration Program
The integration of Meteor technology onto the F-35 is proceeding in two directions: the United Kingdom is leading the program for the F-35B, while Italy is funding the program for the F-35A. Both countries are expected to benefit directly as they are currently operating, or will operate, both variants. Completion of ground integration on the F-35A demonstrates that the in-flight weapons architecture is compatible with the platform's stealth requirements.
Technical value and combat capability
The Meteor missile provides an extended range for engaging airborne targets of approximately 200 km or more, far exceeding the current F-35 configuration, which only includes the short-range AIM-9 and medium-range AIM-120 missiles. When fully integrated, the F-35 can engage targets at greater distances, while also standardizing the armaments of squadrons to European standards. More importantly, the Meteor can be carried in the weapons bay, maintaining a low radar cross-section in line with the F-35's stealth requirements.
Progress, risks, and causes of delays.
According to estimates from the UK, the integration of Meteor into the F-35 will not be completed before the 2030s. The main reasons are delays in the Block 4 upgrade package and issues with the TR-3 software. This has had repercussions on the US F-35 program, which has decided to reduce the number of new aircraft to be purchased (the plan was initially at 66, then increased to over 80), shifting the focus to addressing the existing fleet to avoid further delays.
America's parallel options
Alongside the Meteor, the US is developing the AIM-260 and modifying the SM-6 into the AIM-174B. These are domestic initiatives aimed at meeting long-range combat needs, given the uncertain progress of integrating the Meteor into the F-35 of its European allies.
Short-term impact on implementation
In the near future, the F-35s of Italy and the UK are not expected to have long-range air-to-air weapons ready for combat. This poses a significant limitation for carrier strike groups, which need long-range interception capabilities to form the outermost layer of air defense.
Summary table of related air-to-air weapons
| Weapons | Status on F-35 | Role | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meteorite | F-35A completes ground integration; F-35B undergoes air trials. | Long range | Carried in a compartment, maintaining stealth; range of approximately 200 km or more. |
| AIM-9 | Currently in use | Short range | F-35's existing weapons |
| AIM-120 | Currently in use | Mid-range | F-35's existing weapons |
| AIM-260 | Currently under development in the US. | Long range | The US domestic option |
| AIM-174B | Under development, a modification of the SM-6. | Long range | Directions for enhancing long-range capabilities |
Information according to Defense Express.
