JOINT EFFECTS TARGETING SYSTEM (JETS)

The Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS) is a critical Army procurement program designed to enhance the precision targeting capabilities of dismounted forward observers. The primary goal of the JETS program is to provide individual soldiers with a lightweight, modular, and integrated sensor suite that enables the detection, identification, and accurate three-dimensional geolocation of targets. This system supports the Army's fires sensor strategy and aligns with broader Department of Defense priorities under the National Defense Strategy. It ensures that U.S. forces maintain technological superiority in precision targeting and engagement.

The JETS program is managed by the Army but has joint interest from the Air Force and Marine Corps, reflecting its applicability across multiple service branches. The system enables users to laser mark and designate targets for engagement by various weapons platforms and transmits precise target coordinates to forward entry systems. This capability is essential for the effective employment of precision-guided munitions and for reducing collateral damage during operations. The Army Acquisition Objective (AAO) for JETS is set at 3,355 units, indicating the scale and importance of this capability across the force.

In FY 2026, the program's objectives focus on the Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) of the JETS II variant, with a planned procurement of 42 systems. The JETS II variant incorporates several technological enhancements, including improved targeting sensors, advanced targeting algorithms, and Military-Code (M-Code) GPS receivers. These upgrades are intended to increase accuracy, resilience against electronic warfare threats, and interoperability with future precision munitions. The enhancements also aim to reduce the system's size, weight, and power requirements.

The FY 2026 funding also covers new equipment training and fielding activities to ensure that soldiers are proficient in the use and maintenance of the new JETS II systems. This includes resources for systems engineering, program management, and initial spares to support the deployment and sustainment of the equipment. The program office anticipates that the unit cost for JETS II will decrease in subsequent years as procurement quantities increase and production efficiencies are realized. FY 2026 costs reflect one-time nonrecurring expenses for tooling and test equipment.

JETS is justified as a necessary capability for both active and reserve components, supporting not only overseas contingency operations but also homeland defense missions, domestic emergency responses, and military support to civil authorities. The system's ability to provide rapid, precise targeting information is seen as essential for modern multi-domain operations, where speed and accuracy of fires can be decisive. The program is structured to comply with statutory requirements, including those outlined in section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandates support for a broad range of military operations.

Production planning for JETS II in FY 2026 involves a competitive contract award process, with the Army Contracting Command Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG) responsible for procurement. The delivery schedule anticipates initial systems being fielded beginning in April 2027, with production rates and lead times designed to ensure timely availability to operational units. The program also leverages the Army Portfolio Management Solution (APMS) Standard Management Asset Readiness Tool (SMART) for asset tracking and readiness management, ensuring efficient fielding and sustainment.