Joint Standoff Weapon Systems

The JNT Standoff Weapon Systems program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0604727N, is a Navy-led, joint Navy and Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced air-to-ground standoff weapons. The primary objective of this program is to enhance aircraft survivability and mission effectiveness by enabling aircraft to engage a wide variety of targets from distances outside the range of most surface-to-air threat systems. This standoff capability is critical for modern combat operations, allowing for launch-and-leave tactics that increase sortie effectiveness and reduce risk to aircrews.

The main project under this program element is the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), which is designed to attack targets in all weather conditions, day or night. The JSOW program has developed multiple variants, including the AGM-154A and AGM-154C, both of which use a common truck design to ensure compatibility across Navy, Air Force, and NATO aircraft. The program's goals include maintaining interoperability through adherence to international standards for weapon interfaces, weight, and dimensions. This supports coalition operations and joint force effectiveness.

A significant recent focus of the JSOW program has been the development and integration of the JSOW Unitary (AGM-154C-1) variant, which incorporates Network Enabled Weapon (NEW) capabilities. This variant enables real-time pre- and post-launch targeting updates, allowing the weapon to engage moving maritime targets with greater precision. The AGM-154C-1 achieved Initial Operational Capability in June 2016 and Full Operational Capability in August 2017. The program's focus has since shifted toward sustainment and incremental upgrades.

One of the key objectives for FY 2025 and FY 2026 is the continued migration of JSOW mission planning software from the contractor-owned Common Weapon Planning Environment (CWPE) to the government-owned Next Generation Naval Mission Planning System (NGNMPS). This transition is intended to ensure ongoing compatibility with test range infrastructure and future platform integration. Additionally, the program is investing in the development and validation of mission planning keys and supporting the transition from the Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) to Next Generation Open Mission Services (NOMS), which will provide a more flexible and future-proof mission planning architecture.

The program also includes efforts related to crypto modernization and communications software updates to meet evolving security requirements. Contractors such as Raytheon Missile Systems and Rockwell Collins are involved in these upgrades, which are essential for maintaining secure and reliable weapon system communications in contested environments. These efforts are scheduled to continue through FY 2026 to ensure that JSOW remains compliant with Department of Defense cybersecurity mandates.

In terms of program management and government support, the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) at China Lake, CA, plays a central role in providing technical oversight, integration support, and test infrastructure. The program's acquisition strategy reflects a shift from initial development and production to sustainment, with limited investment in mandated upgrades and mission planning software enhancements to maintain operational relevance.