Lockheed Martin has unveiled the AGM-158 XR (eXtreme Range), an evolution of the JASSM-ER air-launched, low-detectability cruise missile with significantly longer range.
Lockheed Martin claims XR offers a low-risk solution at a fraction of the cost of an initial new program by leveraging the mature production line of the JASSM (attack on ground targets) and LRASM (optimized for ship destruction) family of cruise missiles, established supply chain, mission planning and software infrastructure.
Through minor structural modifications, including a longer missile body to accommodate more fuel, the XR provides an air-to-surface missile with increased range and a 450 kg ((1,000 lb)) payload. Retaining the low observability of the JASSM family, this system is compatible with a variety of aircraft, such as the F/A-18 and F-35, and is expected to be compatible with the Rapid Dragon system for launch from military transport aircraft.
Lockheed Martin has adopted “digital twin” technology to streamline its manufacturing processes. This virtual representation of the production environment enables automated capture of design and manufacturing data, enabling easier integration of improvements in future iterations, ensuring quality standards, and reducing both time and costs.
What is the future of the AGM-158 missile family?
Lockheed Martin, through its Model-Based Enterprise (MBE), is accelerating the delivery of advanced capabilities for the AGM-158 family.
Thanks to an integrated digital environment, the company seeks to reduce the time and cost of the innovation process and adapt AGM-158 weapon systems to the changing needs of the battlefield. The family’s modular approach, exemplified by the AGM-158 XR, facilitates the incorporation of new technologies and adaptation to future threats.
