Joint Air-to-Ground MSLS (JAGM)

The Joint Air-to-Ground Missile System (JAGM) program is a collaborative effort led by the Army, with participation from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. This initiative aims to develop a next-generation, multi-mode air-to-ground munition to replace the legacy HELLFIRE and HELLFIRE Longbow munitions. The primary objective is to enhance the capability to destroy high-value land and maritime targets, whether moving or stationary. The missile can be launched from any platform currently using the HELLFIRE system via a US Army-issued M299 launcher.

The JAGM program integrates advanced technology by utilizing a HELLFIRE back-end propulsion system combined with a Millimeter Wave (MMW) and Semi-Active Laser (SAL) multi-mode guidance section. This combination allows for both fire-and-forget and precision-point targeting capabilities, offering improved performance over existing munitions. Additionally, the program includes developing a Captive Air Training Missile (CATM), which serves as a training tool incorporating a JAGM guidance section with a HELLFIRE CATM backend.

In fiscal year 2025, the focus is on procuring missiles along with Captive Air Training Missiles. The reduction in procurement compared to previous years reflects a decreased requirement for JAGM missiles. However, efforts are being made to leverage contract negotiations and other procurement opportunities to address issues related to safety, reliability, affordability, producibility, and obsolescence.

The overarching goal of the JAGM program is to meet the Army Acquisition Objective of 20,303 units while ensuring these munitions are available for use by both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces. This aligns with broader defense strategies for homeland defense missions and domestic emergency responses. The Air-to-Ground Missile Systems Product Office serves as the procurement agent across all services involved in this initiative.