Overview
- The Pentagon and Lockheed Martin announced a framework agreement on Sept. 17, 2026 that lays groundwork for stepped‑up production of the AIM‑260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile.
- Officials say the framework is a demand signal, not a contract, and conversion to a definitized multiyear procurement requires Congressional authorization and funding.
- Lockheed pledged to use internal funds to expand capacity ahead of formal orders while the Pentagon declined to disclose production rates, delivery schedules, or dollar values.
- U.S. test officials reported that JATM remains in development with flight and ground testing active and accelerating, though most performance details remain classified.
- The framework includes planned foreign military sales and recognizes Australia as the first confirmed export customer, which officials say could help share costs and strengthen allied interoperability while easing pressure on U.S. stocks.