On September 27, 2024, the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center awarded Lockheed Martin two major contracts worth a total of $3.5 billion for the production of AGM-158B JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile) and AGM-158C LRASM (Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile) for both the U.S. and allied nations. Under these contracts, missiles will be supplied to the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and allied nations like Japan, the Netherlands, Finland, and Poland. Additionally, a separate $358 million contract for LRASM includes provisions for a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Australia.
JASSM and LRASM Deliveries
The deliveries of JASSM are expected to be completed by July 31, 2032, while LRASM deliveries are planned to finish by July 31, 2028. Countries such as Japan, Poland, and Finland are in the process of integrating the JASSM-ER variant into their air forces. Japan has purchased 50 AGM-158B JASSM-ER missiles for its F-15J jets, while Poland has signed a $735 million contract for 821 missiles. Finland has also acquired JASSM-ER to be integrated into its F-35A aircraft. These missiles aim to enhance the long-range strike capabilities of allied nations against aerial and naval threats.
New JASSM-XR and Advanced Capabilities
Lockheed Martin continues to develop the JASSM-XR, a new variant designed to significantly extend the range of the current JASSM-ER by increasing fuel capacity. Lockheed Martin officials have stated that the first test flight of the JASSM-XR is planned for 2026. The new variants will utilize modular designs and common components to reduce costs and accelerate development.
This major contract is seen as a crucial step in bolstering the defense capabilities of allied nations. Lockheed Martin is on track to increase its annual production capacity from 720 to 1,100 missiles, which will play a key role in strengthening the long-range strike capabilities of both the U.S. and its allies.
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