Long-range air-to-air missiles are designed specifically for engagement beyond visual range, which allows aircraft to strike targets at significantly greater distances compared to short or medium-range systems. These missiles utilize advanced guidance systems, including radar and infrared technology, enabling them to track and intercept enemy aircraft over vast distances. Their extended reach is crucial in modern aerial combat, where situational awareness and first-strike capabilities are pivotal.
In contrast, short-range air-to-air missiles are intended for close engagements, primarily within visual range, and are optimized for rapid maneuverability and high speed, but with a limited operational radius. Medium-range missiles fall between these two categories, providing more range than short-range variants but less than long-range ones. The term "all-range air-to-air missile" does not typically denote a specific category of missile and can be misleading, as it implies a capability that encompasses all ranges without specificity. Thus, the categorization and design intentions of long-range air-to-air missiles support their designation as having the longest operational range among the options presented.