AIM-260 JATM deal puts Australia’s missile-industrial ambitions in focus
The RAAF’s EA-18G Growlers are one of the air force’s three platforms planned to be fitted with the new missile. (Photo: Defence Imagery)
While a potentially accelerated acquisition timeline could strengthen the RAAF’s long-range air combat capability, Canberra’s continued reliance on US missile production is also put under the spotlight in parallel to its push to build a sovereign industry.
The Australian Department of Defence will acquire the US-made AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) to arm its tactical fighters. The first of these air-to-air weapons could be in-country as early as next year, six years ahead of the widely reported 2033 delivery date, with deliveries due to begin just 12 months after the announcement was made, Shephard understands.
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has ordered the hypersonic, long-range AIM-260 weapon from the US Air Force (USAF) to arm its F/A-18F Super Hornets, F-35A Lightning IIs and EA-18G Growlers in a Foreign Military Sales contract worth A$736 million
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Country-focused updates
-
![E-3 Sentry encryption equipment no longer meets US security requirements, says USAF]()
E-3 Sentry encryption equipment no longer meets US security requirements, says USAF
The US Air Force says the Sentry fleet’s DAR-400 encryptor can no longer keep pace with changing security requirements and warns that a failure could affect US operations and data security.
-
![Israeli Navy looks to expand as war reshapes future force requirements]()
Israeli Navy looks to expand as war reshapes future force requirements
Israel’s navy is preparing for a larger and more technically diverse role, but its ambitions could be impacted by supply chain restrictions, accelerating demand for domestic naval production as well as autonomous maritime capabilities.
-
![BAE Systems looks beyond the M113 replacement as it tests 30mm AMPV]()
BAE Systems looks beyond the M113 replacement as it tests 30mm AMPV
The development demonstrates how the platform could provide additional firepower and growth potential while the US Army progresses its long-term replacement for the Bradley.
-
![Spain air focus: Mature UAV market rewards early supplier engagement]()
Spain air focus: Mature UAV market rewards early supplier engagement
Spain accounts for 5% of European military UAV spending, broadly in line with its share of the continent’s wider defence market. What sets the country apart, however, is how much of that spending has already been committed, reflecting Spain's earlier adoption of the capability.
-
![Competitive P17B tender marks a shift in Indian Navy frigate procurement]()
Competitive P17B tender marks a shift in Indian Navy frigate procurement
The Indian Navy's P17B programme is expected to combine greater weapons capacity with a competitive domestic construction model, although key systems could remain dependent on international supply chains.
