Long Range Standoff Weapon

The Long Range Standoff Weapon program, managed by the Air Force, is focused on developing a new cruise missile system to replace the existing Air Launched Cruise Missile. This initiative aims to enhance the United States' strategic deterrence capabilities by providing a long-range, survivable weapon capable of delivering nuclear effects on strategic targets. The program's objectives include integrating the new missile system with both current and future bomber aircraft, ensuring it can penetrate advanced Integrated Air Defense Systems from a significant distance.

Currently, the program is in the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase. This involves validating requirements through rigorous testing and preparing for production readiness. Key activities include reliability growth, manufacturability improvements, and maintainability maturation to support Development Test and Evaluation. Systems engineering is emphasized to enhance design reliability and manufacturing processes, alongside planning for Production Readiness Reviews.

In addition to missile development, the All-Up-Round component focuses on payload integration and platform compatibility. This includes ensuring seamless integration of Department of Energy-designed warheads into the missile system. The program collaborates closely with the National Nuclear Security Administration to meet nuclear certification requirements and ensure compliance with safety standards. Efforts also involve upgrading facilities and security infrastructure to support secure communication between government entities and industry partners.

Test Support activities are crucial for validating the weapon's performance through ground and flight tests. These efforts are coordinated with external test agencies to prepare for operational evaluations. The program continues to refine its testing strategies to ensure that all components, including warhead integration and aircraft compatibility, meet stringent performance specifications. As design efforts progress post-Critical Design Review, adjustments reflect changes in focus towards integration and testing phases.