Pentagon and Lockheed Martin sign framework deal to accelerate AIM-260 missile production
The U.S. Defense Department and Lockheed Martin signed a framework agreement on September 17, 2026, to expand production of the classified AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) for Air Force and Navy fighters. The deal provides a long-term demand signal to justify supplier investments, ahead of a future multiyear contract. The missile, designed to counter Chinese PL-15s, offers range exceeding 120 miles. Australia became the first export customer, with a potential sale of up to 450 missiles valued at $3.16 billion.
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Pentagon and Lockheed Martin Expand Production of Secretive AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile
The Pentagon announced a framework agreement with Lockheed Martin on September 17 to expand production of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), a next-generation air-to-air missile for the U.S. Air Force and Navy intended to equip fifth- and sixth-generation fighters. The deal aims to provide Lockheed with a long-term demand signal to strengthen the munitions industrial base. The JATM is the successor to the AIM-120 AMRAAM and is designed to overmatch Chinese PL-15 and PL-17 missiles, reportedly doubling the AMRAAM's range to exceed 120 miles. The Air Force revealed it bought 144 JATMs in 2024-2025 and plans at least 112 more, with a $1.5 billion procurement request for fiscal 2027 to scale production. Retired Air Force Colonel Mark Gunzinger of the Mitchell Institute said the framework is important because it is difficult for industry to justify expenditures needed to accelerate production without stable market signals. He also noted that wargames have highlighted the need to rapidly grow inventories of advanced air-to-air weapons, which could be nearly depleted within weeks of high-intensity combat with a peer adversary. The Pentagon declined further comment.
Read sourcePentagon and Lockheed Martin sign framework deal to boost AIM-260 missile production
The U.S. Defense Department and Lockheed Martin signed a framework agreement on September 17, 2026, to expand production of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), a classified long-range air-to-air weapon. The agreement is not a contract or order but serves as a demand signal to justify supplier investment in capacity and workforce. Under Secretary of Defense Michael Duffey stated the move reflects a commitment to sending clear, long-term demand signals. Lockheed's Tim Cahill said the company will invest its own money to expand capacity ahead of orders. The AIM-260, developed for the U.S. Air Force and Navy, offers greater range than the AIM-120 AMRAAM, with public estimates exceeding 120 miles, in response to Chinese PL-15 missiles. Australia became the first export customer in August 2026, with a potential sale of up to 450 missiles valued at $3.16 billion. No production rate or dollar value was disclosed for the framework deal.
Pentagon and Lockheed Martin sign framework deal to boost AIM-260 missile production
The U.S. Defense Department and Lockheed Martin signed a framework agreement on September 17, 2026, to expand production of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), a classified long-range air-to-air weapon. The agreement is not a contract or order but serves as a demand signal to justify investments in capacity, workforce, and production efficiencies, laying groundwork for a future multiyear procurement if Congress authorizes funding. Under Secretary of Defense Michael Duffey emphasized the commitment to clear, long-term demand signals. Lockheed's Tim Cahill stated the company will invest its own money to expand capacity ahead of orders. The AIM-260, developed for the U.S. Air Force and Navy, offers greater range than the AIM-120 AMRAAM, with public estimates exceeding 120 miles, responding to Chinese PL-15 missiles. Australia became the first export customer, announcing a $520 million USD investment for the missile, with a potential sale of up to 450 missiles valued at $3.16 billion approved in March 2026. No production rate or dollar value was disclosed for this framework deal.
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Pentagon and Lockheed Martin Reach Framework Deal to Speed Up New Air-to-Air Missile Production
The Pentagon and Lockheed Martin (LMT.US) have reached a broad framework agreement to accelerate production of a new classified air-to-air missile for the U.S. Air Force and Navy fighter jets, according to a report from Cailian Press on September 17. The agreement is expected to lead to a multi-year Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) production contract. The missile is still under development but is nearing the production stage. The specific details of the missile remain classified, but the framework agreement signals a push to expedite its fielding on American fighter aircraft.
Read sourcePentagon and Lockheed Martin Accelerate Production of New Classified Air-to-Air Missile
The Pentagon and Lockheed Martin are accelerating production of the Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), a new classified air-to-air missile designed for U.S. Air Force and Navy fighter jets, viewed as key to deterring China. The Defense Department announced a broad framework agreement on Thursday that will lead to a multi-year production contract for the missile, which remains in development but is nearing production. Once deployed, JATM, also known as AIM-260, will become the most advanced air-to-air weapon in the U.S. arsenal, surpassing RTX's AIM-120 AMRAAM. The Pentagon stated the agreement is crucial for ensuring Lockheed Martin and the supply chain can make long-term investments. Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control division, said the company will deliver JATM at the speed required by the nation and allies. The Trump administration's proposed budget includes a $2 billion increase for the program, with the Air Force and Navy seeking $2.9 billion in 2027, up from $894 million this fiscal year. The missile is designed to fit within F-22 and F-35 internal weapons bays and will also be integrated onto F-16 and F-15 aircraft.