Lockheed Martin signed a framework agreement with the U.S. Department of War to accelerate production of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM). The new system will replace the long-serving AIM-120 AMRAAM.
The JATM is designed to counter advanced aerial threats, specifically from China. It provides increased range and effectiveness for the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II fighter jets.
Australia recently announced a $736 million investment to acquire the new missile system. This international partnership supports the accelerated delivery of the United States' primary air dominance weapon.