AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon

The AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) program is a new procurement initiative under the Air Force's Missile Procurement appropriation, specifically within the Other Missiles budget activity. The primary goal of this program is to deliver an operational hypersonic, conventional prompt strike capability that can be launched from stand-off ranges. This capability is designed to address high-value, time-sensitive targets in Anti-Access/Area-Denial (A2/AD) environments. It supports the Air Force's strategic objective to maintain technological superiority and rapid response options against emerging threats.

For Fiscal Year 2026, the ARRW program is transitioning from research and development to production and fielding. The program's objectives for this phase include the acquisition of weapon units, integration with existing platforms, and the establishment of initial support infrastructure. Procurement quantities and unit costs are subject to negotiation and may vary based on available funding and acquisition strategies, in accordance with Title 10, U.S. Code Section 2308 Buy-To-Budget Acquisition provisions.

The ARRW program's justification centers on the need for a rapid, survivable strike weapon that can penetrate advanced enemy defenses. The hypersonic nature of the AGM-183A enables it to travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, reducing adversary reaction time and increasing the likelihood of mission success against time-critical targets. This capability is viewed as essential for countering evolving threats in contested environments, where traditional munitions may be less effective due to enemy air defenses and electronic warfare measures.

Within the FY26 budget request, the ARRW line item includes both recurring and non-recurring production costs. Recurring costs cover the direct procurement of the AGM-183A All-Up-Round (AUR) units. Non-recurring costs are associated with production engineering and integration activities necessary to transition the weapon from development to full-rate production. These efforts ensure the weapon system meets operational requirements and is compatible with designated Air Force platforms.

Support activities for the ARRW program are also funded within this line item. These include program management, administration, test and integration, reliability improvements, and other support functions. Program management and administration oversee the execution of procurement and integration, while test and integration validate system performance and readiness. Reliability and Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS) efforts address sustainment risks and ensure long-term viability of the weapon system.

The ARRW program is managed by the Air Force, with oversight from relevant acquisition and operational agencies. The transition to procurement in FY26 follows several years of research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities, which were funded under separate program elements. The FY26 request represents the first production award for the ARRW, with future procurement quantities and support costs to be determined based on operational needs and funding availability.