Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the decision on August 6 at Exercise Pitch Black in Darwin. The multinational event is Australia’s premier international air combat exercise.
The missiles will be acquired through the US Foreign Military Sales program and initially integrated with the Royal Australian Air Force’s F/A-18F Super Hornets. Integration will later extend to the F-35A Lightning II and EA-18G Growler fleets.
The acquisition supports priorities set out in Australia’s 2026 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program. The documents call for a layered air and missile defense architecture capable of detecting and countering threats.
The AIM-260 will give Australian combat aircraft a longer-range capability against airborne targets. It will complement the Australian Defence Force’s existing air-to-air missiles and surface-based missile systems.
The government said the purchase would also deepen operational compatibility between Australian and US forces. The decision follows earlier investments in medium-range air defense and aerial strike capabilities.
“This announcement is the latest milestone in the delivery of long-range, high tech capabilities for our Defence Force,” Marles said. “The Albanese Government continues to deliver critical capabilities that will allow the ADF to strike at a longer range, deter any adversary and protect our national interests.”
“It is fitting to make this announcement at Exercise Pitch Black, which is an important demonstration of Australia’s commitment to the peace, stability and security of our region,” Marles said. The government said the investment would help ensure the ADF is capable, equipped and prepared to respond to Australia’s strategic circumstances.
Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said the acquisition would place Australia at the forefront of the missile’s international introduction. “JATM missiles are some of the most sophisticated air-to-air weapons in the world, and Australia will be the first country to operate them outside the US.”
“This investment will deliver the most advanced capability for our ADF to detect and counter threats, and keep Australians safe,” Conroy said. “This is made possible thanks to the Albanese Government’s record investment in Defence, including up to $36 billion over the next decade for Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance.”
