JATOS

The Jet Assisted Take Off (JATOs) program, as detailed in Line Item 0194 of the Department of the Navy's FY 2026 budget request, is focused on the procurement of solid propellant rocket motors used to launch subsonic aerial targets. These JATO and Rocket Assisted Take Off (RATO) motors are critical for supporting Fleet Live Fire with a Purpose pre-deployment certification events, post-availability Combat System Ship Qualification Tests (CSSQT), and developmental and operational test and evaluation activities for Navy and Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition programs.

The program ensures that the fleet maintains the necessary inventory of subsonic aerial targets for training, combat systems checks, and acquisition program support. The primary objective of the MK-85 RATO procurement is to provide matched pairs of rocket motors for launching BQM-177 subsonic aerial targets. The FY 2026 baseline funding supports the acquisition of MK-85 rocket motors, with quantities determined by current and projected expenditures, inventory requirements, and target operating site capabilities.

The procurement is managed by the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Indian Head Division, which oversees production, quality assurance, and delivery schedules to meet the Navy's operational needs. The MK-117 MOD 0 Rocket Motors line item previously supported BQM-74 launches, but no new procurement is planned for FY 2026. Historically, this line item contributed to the overall capability for launching subsonic aerial targets, but current requirements are being met through existing inventory and other rocket motor types.

This adjustment reflects a shift in fleet requirements and target presentation needs, optimizing resource allocation within the program. In addition to direct procurement, the Production Support RATO and Production Support JATO budget lines provide funding for engineering support, integrated logistics, ordnance safety, product improvements, and lot acceptance testing. These activities are essential for maintaining the reliability, safety, and performance of the rocket motors throughout their lifecycle.

The FY 2026 request includes funding for RATO and JATO production support, ensuring continued technical oversight and quality management. The Other Costs category encompasses funding for activities such as advisory and assistance services, which were reduced in FY 2026 to promote efficiencies in line with Executive Order 14222, focused on government cost efficiency initiatives. This reduction reflects the Navy's commitment to advancing administrative policies while maintaining core program capabilities and support functions necessary for successful target launches and operational testing.

The Jet Assisted Take Off (JATOs)/Rocket Assisted Take Off (RATOs) program is structured to sustain the Navy's ability to conduct realistic training and certification events using subsonic aerial targets. The program's goals are to ensure sufficient inventory, maintain production and delivery schedules, and provide ongoing engineering and logistics support. These objectives are justified by the need to validate fleet readiness, support acquisition program testing, and enhance combat system qualification processes.