Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM)

The Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) program, under Air Force Program Element PE 0207325F, is focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced air-launched standoff cruise missiles. The primary goal is to maintain and enhance the operational effectiveness of the JASSM family, which includes the baseline AGM-158A and extended range variants AGM-158B, AGM-158B-2, AGM-158B-3, and AGM-158D. These missiles are designed to provide long-range, precision strike capabilities against high-value, fixed or relocatable targets, while minimizing risk to launch platforms. The program supports integration with multiple aircraft, including the B-1, F-15E, F-16, B-2, B-52, and ongoing work for the F-35.

JASSM Extended Range (JASSM-ER) is the principal focus of current development efforts. The objectives for JASSM-ER include increasing range, survivability, and flexibility in targeting, particularly in contested environments. The AGM-158B-2 variant introduces upgrades such as an Electronic Safe and Arm Fuze (ESAF), anti-jam GPS receiver, enhanced missile control unit, and improved production commonality with other missile systems. The AGM-158B-3 variant adds M-code GPS capability for improved resistance to jamming and spoofing. The AGM-158D is being developed to incorporate a Weapon Data Link (WDL) for post-launch retargeting, enabling engagement of time-sensitive or relocatable targets.

Warfighting Capability Enhancement is a key line item supporting software and mission planning development to ensure JASSM variants remain effective against evolving classified threats. This includes agile software releases, system modeling, and integration of new performance models into mission planning systems. The program aims to deliver rapid updates to missile operational flight programs and mission planning software, leveraging digital acquisition and modeling frameworks to assess weapon performance against current and projected threats.

Weapon Data Link (WDL) development is a major objective, with funding allocated to hardware and software integration, antenna and sensor development, fuel tank redesign, and testing of command and control capabilities. The WDL enables beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) retargeting, a first for the JASSM program, allowing warfighters to redirect missiles after launch to address dynamic battlefield conditions. This capability is being validated through subsystem and system-level demonstrations, flight testing, and qualification activities, with the goal of fielding the AGM-158D variant by 2027.

Other Development/Safety/Survivability efforts focus on maintaining missile viability through subsystem upgrades, cyber security enhancements, and evaluation of new hardware and navigation technologies. These activities include safety and survivability studies, development of advanced precision navigation and timing (PNT) capabilities, and integration of non-GPS guidance options. The program also addresses obsolescence management and compliance with National Defense Authorization Act requirements, such as the implementation of military GPS M-code receivers.

The JASSM program leverages an Open, Agile, and Digital Acquisition Strategy to facilitate rapid subsystem upgrades and integration of new technologies. This approach includes system engineering, trade studies, modeling and simulation, and collaboration with other weapon systems to reduce redundant costs. Investments in analytical infrastructure, data management, and security support ongoing development and ensure the program can adapt to emerging threats. All development contracts are currently structured as Cost Plus contracts, allowing flexibility in addressing evolving requirements.