LETHAL MINIATURE AERIAL MISSILE SYSTEM (LMAMS

The Lethal Miniature Aerial Missile System (LMAMS) is a line item in the Army's Missile Procurement budget, specifically under the Anti-Tank/Assault Missile Systems subactivity. The primary goal of this program is to provide U.S. Army forces with a lightweight, man-portable, precision-guided loitering missile system that can engage enemy targets beyond the line of sight. LMAMS is designed to address operational gaps where traditional direct fire weapons are ineffective, particularly against obscured or fleeting targets.

The LMAMS system is comprised of several key components: a fire control unit, a launcher, the missile itself, and a modular payload. The missile is equipped with high-resolution electro-optical cameras for daytime operations and infrared cameras for nighttime use, enabling operators to positively identify targets before engagement. This capability is critical for minimizing collateral damage and ensuring compliance with rules of engagement.

One of the distinguishing features of LMAMS is its wave-off capability, which allows the operator to abort or redirect the missile in flight prior to impact. This provides a significant tactical advantage by allowing last-minute adjustments based on changing battlefield conditions or updated intelligence. The system's rapid deployability being operational in less than two minutes further enhances its utility in dynamic combat environments.

The objective of the LMAMS procurement is to equip both active and reserve Army components with a system that increases lethality and flexibility in a variety of mission profiles. The system is particularly effective against unprotected combatant personnel and can also produce casualties against personnel in soft-skinned vehicles. Its portability and ease of use make it suitable for small units operating independently or in support of larger formations.

Funding for LMAMS in prior years and FY 2024 has supported the procurement of these systems. There is no funding requested for LMAMS in FY 2026, as indicated in the budget justification. This may reflect the completion of planned procurement objectives or a transition to sustainment and support activities for fielded systems.

The justification for continued investment in LMAMS is grounded in Section 1815 of the FY08 National Defense Authorization Act, which emphasizes the necessity of such systems for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities. The Army considers LMAMS essential for providing rapid, precise, and flexible response options in both overseas and domestic operations.