US Air Force orders JASSM-ER conversions
JASSM-ER launch from a USAF F-16. (Photo: USAF/Master Sgt Michael Jackson)
Lockheed Martin is converting AGM-158B Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile-Extended Range (JASSM-ER) cruise missiles for test and simulation purposes, the DoD announced on 5 August.
Working under a $10.44 million sole-source contract modification from the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, the company is converting six JASSM-ERs to test assets and nine others for use with ‘weapon systems simulators’, the DoD noted.
Lockheed Martin will complete the work in Orlando by 31 October 2024.
In April 2020, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center issued an $818.21 million contract to Lockheed Martin for JASSM-ER Lot 17 and Lot 18 production, including for FMS customers.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Next-generation tactical UAS: Advancing European defence capabilities
As Europe confronts its most unstable security environment since the Cold War, defence planners recognise that advanced, dependable and flexible Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) are central to a force that competes and prevails on today’s battlefield.
-
Ukraine fighter jet plans accelerate with Sweden and Belgian updates
The country could be on the cusp of finalising an historic deal with Saab for up to 150 aircraft, with Belgium also increasing its number of donated F-16 aircraft to 53 with refreshed delivery timelines.
-
US Air Force prepares next stage of E-3 Sentry modernisation
The USAF intends to conduct the second phase of the DRAGON programme from FY2026 to FY2030, while the future of the E3 replacement remains unknown.
-
Indonesia strengthens Turkish defence ties with Kizilelma drone order
Indonesia’s purchase of 12 drones with options for an additional 48 is the third deal in as many years between Indonesian and Turkish defence industries, bolstering the former’s plans to strengthen its own domestic production and defence industry.
-
Brazil air focus: Army set to dominate country’s $631.67 million UAV market from 2028
The Brazilian Army is forecast to spend $279.15 million on UAVs from 2026, exceeding the Brazilian Navy’s $227.51 million forecast spend, although the naval force was an earlier adopter of the capability.
-
Why Embraer’s C-390 Millennium trajectory continues to climb (updated 2026)
The medium airlift aircraft is swiftly becoming the top pick for an array of countries wishing to enhance their tactical transport capabilities.