Joint Advanced Tactical Missile

The Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) program is a key initiative within the Air Force's missile procurement budget, specifically detailed under line item JATM00. The primary objective of the JATM program is to deliver a high-speed, long-range air dominance weapon designed to counter both current and emerging enemy air threats. This program is a joint effort between the Air Force and the Navy, with the Air Force serving as the lead service. It is crucial for maintaining U.S. air superiority in increasingly contested environments.

The goals of the JATM program focus on procuring advanced tactical missiles compatible with both Air Force and Navy aircraft platforms. The missile is intended to replace or supplement existing air-to-air missiles, offering enhanced range, speed, and lethality. By investing in this capability, the Department of Defense aims to ensure that U.S. forces can effectively engage adversary aircraft equipped with advanced countermeasures and long-range weapons.

Objectives for FY 2026 include funding for weapon flyaway costs, which encompasses the direct procurement of missile units for operational use. The budget also allocates resources to address Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS). This includes resolving obsolescence issues, conducting studies, executing bridge buys, and making life-of-type purchases to secure critical components. These efforts help mitigate risks associated with the availability of electronic parts and other materials that are increasingly scarce or only available through commercial suppliers.

The JATM budget line also emphasizes qualification activities to preserve future production capabilities and capacity. This involves testing and certifying new suppliers and replacement parts to ensure the missile system remains viable throughout its intended lifecycle. The program supports efforts to maintain a robust supply chain, which is essential for uninterrupted production and sustainment of the missile.

In addition to procurement, the JATM program addresses initial spares and unit costs, although these details are documented elsewhere in the budget. The FY 2026 request includes funding to support both recurring and non-recurring costs associated with the missile system. This investment supports the transition from development to full-rate production, ensuring the program can meet operational demands and adapt to evolving technological challenges.

The justification for the JATM program is based on the need to counter advanced adversary capabilities and preserve U.S. air dominance. Details of the budget justification are classified, in accordance with Executive Order 13526, Section 1.4(a), and are submitted annually to Congress in the classified budget justification book. This process ensures that sensitive information regarding missile capabilities, procurement quantities, and specific technical requirements is protected while providing oversight and transparency to authorized stakeholders.