Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM)

The Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) program, detailed under Program Element PE 0207172F in the FY 2026 Air Force Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is a high-priority initiative aimed at developing the AIM-260A missile. The JATM is designed to provide a high-speed, long-range air dominance capability, enabling U.S. forces to defeat current and emerging enemy air threats. The program is a joint effort between the Air Force and Navy, with the Air Force serving as the lead agency. Its overarching goal is to preserve and enhance national air superiority by fielding advanced missile technology compatible with both Air Force and Navy aircraft.

The primary objectives of the JATM program center on research, development, and system improvement activities. FY 2026 funding supports continued development, system improvement, developmental and operational testing, and integration with threshold platforms. These efforts are intended to mature critical technologies, advance packaging designs, and facilitate hardware and software enhancements to address pacing threats. The program also includes science and technology and risk reduction initiatives, which are essential for ensuring the missile system remains effective against evolving adversary capabilities.

A significant portion of the JATM budget is allocated to product development activities for the AIM-260A missile. The focus is on advancing missile performance through targeted system improvements and block upgrades. These upgrades are designed to increase the missile's range, speed, and survivability, ensuring it can counter advanced enemy aircraft and missile systems. The project also supports integration and testing with operational platforms, ensuring seamless deployment across multiple service branches.

The acquisition strategy for the JATM program emphasizes rapid fielding of initial missile capability, expansion of production capacity, and timely delivery to operational units. The strategy also includes support for fielded operations, maintenance, and repair, as well as ongoing system improvement through a structured System Improvement Program and periodic block upgrades. This approach is intended to maintain a technological edge over adversaries and ensure the missile remains effective throughout its lifecycle.

In addition to development and integration, the JATM program is reported in accordance with Title 10, United States Code, Section 119(a)(1), as a Special Access Program. This designation underscores the sensitive nature of the technology and operational details, with further information provided to Congress through the Special Access Program Annual Report. The program's schedule and specific milestones are similarly protected, with actual breakout and timeline details available only through secure channels.

The FY 2026 budget also references related funding under the MPAF 02 line item, which supports additional JATM activities. This funding supports complementary efforts in missile procurement, platform integration, and operational support, further reinforcing the program's objectives of rapid capability deployment and sustained air dominance. The combined investments across RDT&E and procurement lines reflect the Department of Defense's commitment to maintaining technological superiority in air-to-air combat.