In the US, Lockheed Martin reveals details of the AIM-260 missile — Jerusalem Post
US corporation Lockheed Martin has revealed details of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile air-to-air missile and signed a framework agreement with the US Department of Defense to increase its production. As The Jerusalem Post reports, the missile was developed in secrecy over several years as the US response to long-range aerial threats from China.
Missile for the F-22 and F-35
Lockheed Martin said that the AIM-260 has greater range and effectiveness than existing air-to-air missiles. The company estimates that this will provide an advantage against Chinese fighter jets, including the J-20.
The missile is planned for use on F-22 Raptor and F-35 stealth fighters. Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, called the JATM one of the United States' key capabilities for ensuring air superiority and noted that due to the program's classified nature, the company had previously been unable to discuss it publicly.
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Production increase
The framework agreement is intended to form the basis for a multiyear contract to procure missiles and strengthen the program's production base. Lockheed Martin said it would fund the investments needed to increase production volumes under the agreement.
The first images of the AIM-260 appeared in May. Australia also announced its intention to purchase JATM missiles for approximately $521 million, although the number of missiles and their unit cost were not disclosed. The publication writes that the war with Iran depleted missile stockpiles of the United States and its allies, increasing the Pentagon's desire to procure cheaper long-range precision weapons more quickly.
