Joint Advanced Tactical Missile to Replace Raytheon AIM
2022 Field Planning for AIM-260
The United States Air Force is set to begin fielding the Lockheed Martin AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) in 2022. The JATM is a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) that will replace the Raytheon AIM-120 AMRAAM. The JATM is designed to be more capable than the AMRAAM, with a longer range and improved seeker. It is also expected to be more affordable than the AMRAAM.
The development of the JATM is a joint effort between the Air Force and the Navy. The Air Force will use the JATM to replace the AMRAAM on its fighter jets, while the Navy will use it to replace the AIM-54 Phoenix on its F-14 Tomcats. The JATM is expected to enter production this year, and it could be operational by 2025.
Replacing Aging Weapons Systems
The JATM is part of a broader effort to replace the Air Force's aging weapons systems. The Air Force is also developing a new long-range bomber, a new fighter jet, and a new tanker. These new weapons systems are designed to be more capable and more affordable than the systems they replace. The JATM is a key part of this effort, and it will help the Air Force to maintain its air superiority in the years to come.
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