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If the USSR had stuck around longer, the AAAM would probably have prototypes built and tested. The rapid collapse of the USSR in our timeline caused the whole “Peace Dividend” tornado, which swept up a lot of forward thinking defense projects (AAAM) or stalled existing ones like the B-2/ATF.Anyway, in my opinion, the choice could be either one. The HR design offered proven propulsion methods (ramjet) and relative simplicity, while the GDW design offered significantly more advantageous form factor (as small as a sparrow without fins), and could be the base for a significant leapfrog in AAM technology with its thrust vectoring and dual pulse motor.I personally prefer the GDW design, because the form factor could have made it compatible with a lot more platforms, especially those with internal bays and in larger numbers. The AMRAAM was a good missile when introduced, but it was not really a BVR capable missile in the A and B versions. It also relies on coasting to its target at longer range, whereas the GDW AAAM had that second stage that would start near the target for maximum energy and low escape chance. IR terminal homing also would not set off the targets RWR, so there was less warning compared to terminal radar homing. The front end of a GDW missile could also be a dogfight missile if the radar seeker was removed, or if desired, could function as a long range IR missile similar to the R-27T/ET.
If the USSR had stuck around longer, the AAAM would probably have prototypes built and tested. The rapid collapse of the USSR in our timeline caused the whole “Peace Dividend” tornado, which swept up a lot of forward thinking defense projects (AAAM) or stalled existing ones like the B-2/ATF.
Anyway, in my opinion, the choice could be either one. The HR design offered proven propulsion methods (ramjet) and relative simplicity, while the GDW design offered significantly more advantageous form factor (as small as a sparrow without fins), and could be the base for a significant leapfrog in AAM technology with its thrust vectoring and dual pulse motor.
I personally prefer the GDW design, because the form factor could have made it compatible with a lot more platforms, especially those with internal bays and in larger numbers. The AMRAAM was a good missile when introduced, but it was not really a BVR capable missile in the A and B versions. It also relies on coasting to its target at longer range, whereas the GDW AAAM had that second stage that would start near the target for maximum energy and low escape chance. IR terminal homing also would not set off the targets RWR, so there was less warning compared to terminal radar homing. The front end of a GDW missile could also be a dogfight missile if the radar seeker was removed, or if desired, could function as a long range IR missile similar to the R-27T/ET.
