In article ,
Thomas Borchert wrote:

Ok. So WHY haven't they been used in earnest?

probably because the ROE haven't allow for it or one wasn't needed, yet.

In all likely situations,
shorter-distance weapons were used. Prime example is the Lybian
shoot-down.

"likely situations" aren't the only consideration in determining threats
and military weapon systems capabilities to meet those threats.

In any case, the threat assessement(s) used as the basis for the
long-range air-to-air missile requirements are almost certainly classified
and not something that can be discussed in a public forum.

--
Bob Noel
no one likes an educated mule