The US Department of Defense has signed a framework agreement with Lockheed Martin aimed at increasing production capacity for the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM). The weapon is being developed as a next-generation air-to-air missile and is intended to provide the US military with greater long-range aerial engagement capability. The agreement was established under the Arsenal of Freedom initiative, which seeks to expand and strengthen domestic munitions production. Rather than representing a specific multiyear procurement order, the framework is intended to establish the basis for future multiyear JATM purchases. By providing industry with a longer-term indication of potential demand, the arrangement is designed to encourage Lockheed Martin and its supplier network to invest in production capacity, skilled personnel and manufacturing improvements. AIM-260 DevelopmentThe AIM-260 is being developed as a long-range air-to-air weapon intended to complement and eventually replace the medium-range AIM-120 AMRAAM. The programme is highly classified and is being pursued jointly by the US Air Force and US Navy. The missile is expected to provide increased engagement range and improved resistance to enemy countermeasures. Its development is intended to address increasingly capable opposing air-to-air missiles, including China’s PL-15 and PL-17. Development was underway by at least 2017, with initial operational fielding originally targeted for 2022, according to Air and Space Forces Magazine. Flight testing began in 2020, but integration challenges involving fifth-generation aircraft contributed to schedule delays. The missile is now approaching initial fielding on the F-22. For fiscal year 2026, the Air Force and Navy publicly requested funding for JATM procurement for the first time. Their budget request sought approximately $670.5 million for procurement and another $647.8 million for continued development. The requested quantities were not disclosed.
