Quotes from the DCS F/A-18C "AIM-9L and M Sidewinder Air-to-Air Missile" and "AIM-120B and C Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile" training missions:
"Deliveries of the AIM-120B began in 1994 and replaced the AIM-120A. The AIM-120C was fielded in 1996 and has clipped wings to support internal storage, improved target detection, and greater range. "
"Today we're looking at the L and M versions. The AIM-9L, or Lima, entered production in 1977 and was the first all-aspect homing Sidewinder. Meaning it could get a lock on a target at any aspect angle; however, a rear-aspect provides much better detection. The Mike, or AIM-9M, is an improved version of the Lima with better flare-rejection and a reduced-smoke motor. In a later lesson we'll take a look at the AIM-9X and the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System.