Navy officials announced the existence of the AIM‑424 “Malice” very long‑range air‑to‑air missile at the Tailhook Association convention in Reno, Nevada, and released images of the weapon mounted on a Super Hornet and installed in an F‑35C weapons bay. Developed as a two‑stage solid‑propellant missile, the AIM‑424 is being tested for integration on F/A‑18E/F Super Hornets, F‑35C Joint Strike Fighters and the upcoming F/A‑XX carrier‑based fighter. The missile exceeds the size and range of the AIM‑120 AMRAAM and the AIM‑260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile and the Pentagon said it could reach beyond 1,000 miles in future variants. Pentagon officials said the system could help counter anti‑access capabilities and maintain air‑domain overmatch against long‑range threats, including those fielded by China. The Navy’s specifications page indicates a weight of 1,500 pounds, a length of 13.5 feet, a diameter of 13.5 inches, a wingspan of 26.2 inches and a range in excess of 250 nautical miles. Raytheon is identified as the contractor, and the weapon is designed for 4th, 5th and 6th generation platforms, providing extended reach, survivability and tactical flexibility for naval aviation. Details on a potential anti‑ballistic or air‑to‑surface role have not been released, and the specific targets intended for extreme‑distance engagements remain undetermined. Further reporting will be published as additional information becomes available.