They have conducted tests, and have successfully intercepted a high-speed “cigarette boat”, which simulates a drug running boat.

The idea here is that if an aircraft encounters a ground target while only armed for air-to-air, it could use the Sidewinder to take out the target.

Me, I’m wondering why they don’t just use the cannon.

One interesting bit here is that the F-22 crash 9 months ago might have been a part of this test, as it was reported that the smaller side bay doors were open at the time of the incident.