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At the Air, Space & Cyber 2024 event in Washington, Lockheed Martin showcased its latest advancement in missile technology: the AGM-158 XR, an extreme-range variant of the Joint-Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM). This new missile boasts enhanced capabilities, including larger fuel tanks and improved avionics, extending its range to nearly 1,600 kilometers.
The AGM-158 XR represents a significant upgrade over its predecessors, which have been integral to the United States Air Force’s deep-strike missions since the original JASSM entered service in 2009. The series is also employed by naval forces, with variants like the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) designed for the U.S. Navy. Known for their low detectability, these missile systems can be launched from various platforms, including aircraft and ships.
With the ability to carry a 454 kg warhead, the AGM-158 XR’s range is comparable to that of Tomahawk missiles, allowing it to strike targets from distances of 1,600 kilometers. Its design retains the characteristic trapezoidal cross-section of previous models, enhanced with new sensors and avionics. Notably, it features a data link that enables swarming capabilities, allowing multiple missiles to coordinate during strikes.
Lockheed Martin emphasizes the missile’s modular design, which allows for customization and future upgrades. “We’re going digital, leveraging the existing mission planning structure and software architecture,” explained John Hill, Lockheed Martin’s general manager. This adaptability is crucial for incorporating updates based on feedback from warfighters.
The AGM-158 XR’s extended range will enhance the survivability of launch platforms, including the F-16, F-15E, F-15EX, and various bombers. Its low-observable skin and reduced infrared and electromagnetic signatures further improve stealth.
Lockheed Martin plans to produce 1,100 missiles annually, with some being AGM-158 XRs, though testing timelines remain uncertain. As an internally funded initiative, the XR variant is expected to enter deep-flight testing in a few years, promising a formidable addition to the U.S. military’s arsenal.
