The upcoming test will reportedly utilize Lockheed’s new vertical launch system called the Quad Launcher, which will allow the missiles to be fired from medium and large surface vessels.

The company recently showcased a model of a generic vessel equipped with four JAGM Quad Launchers, indicating its readiness for the much-awaited integration.

Lockheed did not provide a specific date for the planned live-fire demonstration.

If successful, the test could allow for the official integration of Quad Launchers on surface vessels to defeat maritime threats.

“We are still in the development phase of the vertical launch capability and demonstrating to [the] US [Department of Defense] is our near-term goal,” said Patrick Sweeney, Lockheed’s senior manager for international business development.

Potential Applications

The sea-launched JAGM test is part of a broader initiative to transform the munition into a multi-domain weapon system capable of addressing a wide variety of threats.

It can be used to engage uncrewed surface vessels and drones, similar to those used by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

Currently, the US Navy employs AGM-114 Longbow Hellfire missiles for targeting small surface vessels.

The existing version of the JAGM only allows for launch on aerial platforms, such as the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter.

Lockheed plans to offer the sea-launched JAGM to the US military and the Australian Defence Force.

The post Lockheed Braces for First Sea-Launched JAGM Missile Test appeared first on The Defense Post.

Named the AGM-158 XR, the weapon appears to be substantially larger than its predecessors, enabling it to carry more fuel and a potential 1,000-pound (453-kilogram) armor-piercing warhead.

It also reportedly incorporates “smart” internal modifications to increase modularity and facilitate future upgrades.

While its exact strike range has not been disclosed, a Lockheed spokesperson indicated that the AGM-158 XR could exceed other JASSM and Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) variants.

It also maintains compatibility with F/A-18 and F-35 fighter jets.

Once operational, the weapon is expected to bolster the lethality of military units and increase pilot survivability by enabling strikes further away from the threat.

‘A Great Option to Consider’

Lockheed General Manager John Hill emphasized that the new weapon builds on proven production lines, established supply chains, and existing mission planning structures.

He also said the AGM-158 XR anticipates the needs of warfighters, making it “a great option” for the US Air Force to consider in the future.

The company clarified that the weapon is still in development and “several years out” from being ready for fielding.

However, it stated that initial flight testing could begin in one or two years.

“Lockheed Martin has developed the AGM-158 XR concept to offer significantly increased standoff attack range and be rapidly produced and delivered to the US military,” the firm noted.

Currently, the US Department of Defense has not yet committed to purchasing the new variant.

The post Lockheed Unveils ‘Extreme Range’ Variant of JASSM Cruise Missile appeared first on The Defense Post.

The updated deal allows Canberra to manufacture the rocket motors and warheads for the GMLRS missiles, which will be produced locally.

Under the original agreement signed earlier this year, the country was only permitted to assemble the missiles with components sourced from the US.

This arrangement has been compared to assembling flatpack furniture, where individual pieces are assembled by the user.

“The global supply of solid rocket motors is under stress. We need partners globally in order to be successful,” Lockheed VP for international integration Ken Kota said.

Chosen Supplier

Thales Australia has been designated as the primary supplier of the rocket motors and explosive warheads for the Australian-manufactured GMLRS missiles.

Its facilities in Victoria and New South Wales are expected to produce the first locally-made GMLRS components.

CEO Jeff Connolly stated that his company is well-prepared to meet not only Australian missile requirements but also global demand.

“We started the discussion about what it would take to make a rocket motor and warhead for GMLRS as a start point,” he said. “People would like to tell you that Australia can’t do it – well it’s already there.”

Thales Australia has a proven track record in producing explosive ordnance, including the BLU-111 bombs, which were introduced into the Royal Australian Air Force in 2022.

The post Lockheed, Australia Expand GMLRS Local Production Deal appeared first on The Defense Post.

Oslo has an existing order for eight radars signed in 2022, bringing the total number to 11.

According to company VP for Radar & Sensor Systems Chandra Marshall, the next-generation TPY-4s are crucial components of Norway’s ground-based air defense capability.

They are also well-suited for supporting multi-domain deterrence in the Nordic region.

“The additional order and the completion of the Critical Design Review mark major steps forward, confirming that our radar meets the stringent requirements of [Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency] (NDMA) and ensuring the security and sovereignty of Norway,” she said.

Lockheed and the NDMA have not disclosed specific delivery timelines for the new order.

‘Eyes in the North’

The TPY-4 radar is designed to provide military customers with critical capability to detect and track current and emerging threats.

It can reportedly operate in congested electromagnetic environments, ensuring effective functions despite the presence of jammers and other electromagnetic interference.

It also boasts an open system architecture to enable seamless integration of future capabilities.

The TPY-4 is available in both fixed and mobile variants and is transportable via a C-130 transport plane or helicopter.

Once delivered, the radar will enhance the Norwegian Air Force’s capability to track and classify aerial threats, providing critical situational awareness.

It is also expected to act as NATO’s “eyes in the north” amid increasing regional tensions.

The post Norway Buys More TPY-4 Multi-Mission Radars From Lockheed appeared first on The Defense Post.

The system will be integrated into the country’s incoming 66 F-16V multi-role fighter jets ordered from the US, with the first two jets expected to be received by the end of 2024 after last year’s delays due to technical and supply chain issues. 

This latest EW system procurement, in addition to munitions and support systems, was included in the Ministry of National Defense’s spending plan submitted to the Legislature on August 30. 

However, Taiwan’s national news agency noted the procurement was absent from the 2022 to 2024 spending plans, suggesting it could have been financed through undisclosed appropriations.

Viper Shield

Officially named the AN/ALQ-254(V)1 All-Digital Electronic Warfare Suite, Viper Shield provides virtual electronic shields for fighter jets to detect modern radar systems and counter multiple threats simultaneously. 

L3Harris, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin and the US Air Force, created the EW system, which is “custom designed to be baseline on advanced F-16 aircraft and maximize their survivability and mission success.”

Viper Shield incorporates a digital radar warning receiver that works seamlessly with the  F-16V’s APG-83 active electronically scanned array radar for improved situational awareness. 

Additionally, it’s equipped with a digital radio frequency memory-based jamming system for enhanced capability against advanced threats. 

This software-defined technology’s open system architecture allows easy integration of new capabilities to effectively respond to changing combat scenarios. 

Compared to older EW systems, Viper Shield has a lighter and smaller modular design for lower maintenance costs and easier upgrades without extensive downtime.

As part of an international upgrade program, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Morocco, and Slovakia also ordered the Viper Shield installation for their F-16Vs through foreign military sales. 

The post Taiwan Allocates $1.3B to Acquire ‘Viper Shield’ EW System for F-16VS appeared first on The Defense Post.

The agreement supports New Delhi’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program “while also deepening India-US strategic ties,” the American aerospace giant said.

It also outlines a framework to collaborate on future potential business opportunities, including the launch of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility to support the Indian Air Force’s fleet of 12 C-130Js in addition to other global Super Hercules fleets as well as expanding C-130J manufacturing and assembly in India.

The IAF seeks to purchase up to 80 medium transport aircraft, issuing a request for information last year. Lockheed Martin responded to the request by offering its C-130J-30 Super Hercules.

“Collaborating with Lockheed Martin on the C-130J platform proposition for IAF’s MTA project is a milestone for Tata Advanced Systems,” Tata Advanced Systems’ Sukaran Singh said.

“The current announcement is also significant as it marks the entry of Tata Advanced Systems into the defence [maintenance, repair, and overhaul] space in India for large aircraft platforms.”

Lockheed VP of Air Mobility and Maritime Missions Rod McLean added that teaming “demonstrates Lockheed Martin’s commitment to a self-reliant India and the degree of confidence that exists in our relationships with our partners in India and the Indian industry at large.”

About the C-130J-30

Lockheed Martin’s C-130J-30 is a military transport aircraft equipped with four turboprop engines.

It has a payload capacity of 44,000 pounds (19,958 kilograms), enough to carry up to 124 fully-equipped soldiers.

The tactical airlifter possesses a maximum speed of 410 miles (659 kilometers) per hour and an operational range of 1,700 nautical miles (3,148 kilometers).

According to the company, the “unmatched” capabilities of its Super Hercules fleet have made it an in-demand aircraft with over 2,500 deliveries worldwide.

It has surpassed more than three million flight hours across 63 nations.

“Always evolving, continually innovating, and ready for what’s next, the Super Hercules leads the charge by setting standards and shaping the future of tactical airlift missions,” the company stated.

The post Lockheed, Tata Advanced Systems to Enhance C-130J Development in India appeared first on The Defense Post.

Announced at the International Defence Industry Exhibition in Kielce, company senior director Tim Flood said the 47F Block II version would support Warsaw’s defense needs with its ability to transport 31 combat troops and up to 16,000 pounds (7,257 kilograms) of cargo.

It would also help enhance the country’s cooperation with allied forces, as the chopper is operational in nine NATO member states.

“The Chinook has been a key part of the European defense and humanitarian relief missions for more than five decades,” Flood said. “[It] would deliver additional benefits to Poland through job creation … and greater autonomy for the Polish defense industry.”

Powered by two Honeywell engines, the CH-47F Block II can achieve a maximum speed of 302 kilometers (187 miles) per hour and a service ceiling of 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).

Potential Competitor

Although Boeing has already publicized its offering, Poland has yet to decide whether to purchase this option or initiate a tender to explore other alternatives.

But if a competition occurs, Lockheed Martin is expected to participate with its CH-53K King Stallion.

This would be a repeat of the battle for Germany’s next heavy-lift helicopter, where Berlin chose to purchase 60 Chinooks over the Lockheed-manufactured choppers.

Originally developed for the US Marine Corps, the King Stallion can carry 34 soldiers or up to two light armored vehicles not exceeding 27,000 pounds (12,247 kilograms).

Unlike the Chinook, the CH-53K is powered by three turboshaft engines that enable it to reach speeds up to 315 kilometers (196 miles) per hour.

The post Boeing Pitches CH-47 Chinook as Poland’s New Heavy-Lift Chopper appeared first on The Defense Post.

Lockheed Martin announced Thursday that it had secured a deal with Cairo for the C-130J-30 variant at the Egypt International Airshow 2024.

According to the company, the acquisition will enhance the Egyptian Air Force’s tactical airlift capabilities, allowing it to better support missions across North Africa.

“Welcoming Egypt to the C-130J Super Hercules global fleet is an honor that truly represents the longstanding partnership between our two nations and with Lockheed Martin,” Lockheed VP Rod McLean said.

With this purchase, Egypt will become the 23rd foreign operator of the C-130J and the 7th in the Middle East/North Africa region.

Proven Capabilities

Lockheed’s C-130 is a powerful military transport aircraft equipped with four turboprop engines.

Its J-30 variant offers an impressive payload capacity of 44,000 pounds (19,958 kilograms), enough to carry up to 124 fully-equipped soldiers.

It boasts a maximum speed of 410 miles (659 kilometers) per hour and an operational range of 1,700 nautical miles (3,148 kilometers).

According to Lockheed, the “unmatched” capabilities of its Super Hercules fleet have made it an in-demand tactical airlifter with over 2,500 deliveries worldwide.

It has also reportedly surpassed more than three million flight hours across 63 nations.

“Always evolving, continually innovating, and ready for what’s next, the Super Hercules leads the charge by setting standards and shaping the future of tactical airlift missions,” the company stated.

The post Egypt to Join C-130J Super Hercules Global Operators With New Purchase appeared first on The Defense Post.

A representative from Northrop told Breaking Defense that the company aims to offer its AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) for the fourth-generation aircraft.

This “ultra-wideband suite” can detect, identify, and counter advanced radio-frequency threats, enhancing aircraft survivability in congested electromagnetic spectrum environments.

The IVEWS includes a cutting-edge radar warning receiver, advanced processor, and high-powered transmitters tailored to the size and power requirements of the F-16.

Northrop recently conducted an anechoic chamber test of the AN/ALQ-257, marking the first time it was installed on the warplane.

L3Harris’ Pitch

L3Harris is pitching its all-digital AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield as the EW solution for Polish F-16s.

The company stated that its EW suite is designed to maximize the aircraft’s survivability and mission success.

It integrates commercial-off-the-shelf technologies to enhance overall performance and facilitate seamless future upgrades.

“This advanced EW system will provide a virtual electronic shield around the aircraft, enabling warfighters to complete missions safely in increasingly complex battlespace scenarios,” L3Harris stated on its website.

Company official Anna Gragossian said late last year that the AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield will undergo further evaluation to determine its effectiveness in jamming adversary signals and providing increased protection to aircrews.

Ambitious Upgrade

In 2023, Washington approved Poland’s request for a mid-life upgrade of its fleet of 48 F-16 multi-role fighters.

Though not specified, the $389-million deal could transform the Polish aircraft from Block 50 to the latest Block 70/72 configuration.

According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the modernization will bolster Warsaw’s ability to address current and future threats by increasing the reliability of its F-16 fleet.

The post Northrop, L3Harris Vie to Supply Electronic Warfare Suite for Polish F-16s appeared first on The Defense Post.

With an estimated cost of $390 million, the potential sale includes 24 M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS)-Alternative Warhead Pods and 24 GMLRS-Unitary High Explosive Pods.

It also includes 10 M1152 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and 36 GPS receivers.

According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the proposed sale will help improve Croatia’s capability to deter current and future security threats.

It will also “support the foreign policy and national security of the US by improving the security of a NATO ally that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.”

The DSCA has confirmed that the sale will not adversely affect US defense readiness if it proceeds.

Strategic Importance

The M142 HIMARS is a truck-mounted multiple rocket launcher system capable of carrying a six-pack of GMLRS rockets or two Precision Strike Missiles.

It has a reported range of 300 kilometers (186 miles), which can be extended to 500 kilometers (310 miles) using advanced munitions.

With its long-range capability, the weapon could be of strategic importance to Croatia, given the geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Balkans.

Currently, Zagreb relies on the M-92 Vulkan Multiple Launch Rocket System as its primary artillery rocket system, despite only having a strike range of 20 kilometers (12 miles).

The post US Clears $390M HIMARS Sale to Croatia appeared first on The Defense Post.