Yesterday, the American company Lockheed Martin reported the completion of new tests for the integration of the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) into the F-35 stealth fighter, working alongside the F-35 Pax River Integrated Test Force (ITF). The completion of these tests marks a significant milestone for the LRASM program, as this is the first time they have been conducted using an F-35B as the platform, a role previously held only by the C variant aircraft.
Complementing tests conducted in September, the company’s goal remains to advance the Block 4 upgrade package for the F-35. This update would allow, among other things, the stealth fighter to carry both the LRASM (Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile) and the JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile) under its wings. Undoubtedly, this is a major development that would enhance the F-35’s multi-mission combat capabilities.
Reflecting on statements from the company, Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, stated: “The integration of these systems once again demonstrates how we continue adding the most advanced capabilities to the F-35 to ensure it remains a dominant force in the skies for decades to come.”
On the other hand, regarding the known capabilities of the tested weapon system, both the LRASM and JASSM belong to Lockheed Martin’s AGM-158 family, with the anti-ship missile developed from the land-attack variant. Among its advantages, the modern capability being integrated into the U.S. F-35 features a new advanced guidance system that reduces reliance on infrared sensors and GPS for striking enemy targets. Instead, it incorporates the ability to use “raw target location data” to identify its designated target, thereby decreasing vulnerability to electronic countermeasures.
According to the manufacturer, these missiles are compatible with a wide range of aircraft, including the B-1B Lancer bombers and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet strike fighters, in addition to the future integration with F-35s. Moreover, work is underway to integrate LRASM into the U.S. Navy’s Mk.41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) installed on its warships, with initial testing dating back to 2013 at the WSMR Desert Ship range.
Images used for illustration purposes.
You may also like: U.S. Army advances in the procurement of 324 upgraded 8×8 Stryker AFVs and 300 4×4 JLTV Tactical Vehicles
