Aim 260 Jatm

Pentagon Prepares to Field Secretive AIM-260 Missile in 2022

Air Force Set to Replace Raytheon's AIM-9 with Lockheed Martin's JATM

May 2, 2023 | By John A.

The United States Air Force (USAF) is poised to begin fielding the Lockheed Martin AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) this year, as it aims to replace the Raytheon AIM-9 Sidewinder missile.

Accelerated Production

In an accelerated production effort, the AIM-260 is expected to enter full production later this year. The missile has been in development for at least two years under a rapid acquisition program.

Secrecy Surrounds Development

The AIM-260 program remains highly classified, with little information available about its capabilities. However, it is known that the missile will be a significant upgrade over the AIM-9, offering improved performance and capabilities.

Status Update

Speaking at a recent event, Lieutenant General Clinton H. Moore III, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Plans, and Requirements at the USAF, provided a rare status update on the AIM-260 program. He emphasized the importance of the missile and the USAF's commitment to bringing it into service as soon as possible.

The AIM-260 is a critical component of the USAF's future air combat capabilities. Its fielding in 2022 will mark a significant milestone in the modernization of the U.S. military's aerial arsenal.