The U.S. Navy and the U.S. Air Force recently awarded Lockheed Martin a $172 million contract to continue the production of the air-launched variant of the Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM).
LRASM was designed to detect and destroy specific targets within groups of ships by employing advanced technologies. This reduces the military’s dependence on GPS navigation, network links and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms. It is ideal for open waters because of its ability to discriminate and conduct tactical engagements from extended ranges.
The missiles are precision-guided and are based on the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile-Extended Range.
The air-launched variant meets the U.S. Navy’s offensive anti-surface warfare Increment I requirement.
This delivery is the second of several expected annual production lots that will send next-generation anti-ship missiles to the U.S. Navy and Air Force.
“LRASM brings a game-changing capability to both the U.S. Air Force and the Navy,” David Helsel, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control LRASM director, said. “This second production lot will provide anti-ship missiles for both the B-1B and F/A-18E/F, bringing sea control back to our Warfighters.”
The contract includes a full production run of missiles and engineering support.
Naval Air Systems Command also awarded Lockheed Martin a $68.9-million contract to conduct programming and reprogramming mission for the F-35 Digital Channelized Receiver/Technique Generator and Tuner Insertion Program.