Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
12 ARTICLES
·
2d ago

Pentagon, Lockheed Sign Framework to Ramp Up AIM‑260 JATM Production

The agreement signals long‑term demand to prompt supplier investment pending Congressional approval for a funded multiyear purchase.

Official rendering of an F-22 Raptor launching an AIM-260 JATM. (Image credit: U.S. Air Force)
Image
Pictured is Steve Feinberg testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee at his confirmation hearing to become deputy defense secretary in February last year.
Image

Overview

  • The Department of War and Lockheed Martin signed a nonbinding framework agreement on Sept. 17 to expand production capacity for the AIM‑260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile.
  • The deal is a demand signal rather than a funded contract and does not obligate money or specify production rates, with a definitized multi‑year procurement still requiring Congressional authorization and appropriation.
  • Lockheed said it will make internal investments to enlarge capacity, and U.S. test officials report JATM development and flight and ground testing is progressing along its program path.
  • The framework explicitly covers Foreign Military Sales and follows Australia’s earlier commitment of roughly $520 million USD (about $736 million AUD) to buy JATMs as the first confirmed export customer.
  • The move responds to inspector general and Congressional Budget Office findings of depleted missile stocks and industrial bottlenecks and is intended to stabilize the munitions supply chain so suppliers can invest in facilities, tooling, and workforce.