Lockheed Martin to expand orlando facility for increased JASSM-ER and LRASM missile production

By Defence Industry Europe

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced a new contract with Lockheed Martin to fund the expansion of its manufacturing facilities in Orlando, Florida. The contract, valued at USD 122.5 million, aims to enhance production capacity for the AGM-158B JASSM-ER cruise missile and the AGM-158C LRASM anti-ship missile.

 

The agreement, signed in March, is scheduled for completion by mid-July 2028. Lockheed Martin will use the funds to acquire necessary tooling and diagnostic equipment, ensuring a faster production rate to meet growing domestic and international demand.

 

 

The expansion is driven by increasing requirements from the U.S. Armed Forces and the growing number of international customers. To fulfil potential export orders in line with buyers’ schedules, Lockheed Martin must boost its production efficiency.

A key advantage of both missile types is their integration with the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. With 19 countries already operating or planning to operate the F-35, this integration significantly expands the potential customer base for the AGM-158 missile family.

 

 

So far, the AGM-158 JASSM series has been exported to Australia, Finland, and Poland. Additional nations continue to place orders under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, reflecting the system’s growing popularity.

The AGM-158C LRASM anti-ship missile has also seen export success, with Australia being the first confirmed buyer. Other countries, including Poland, have expressed interest in acquiring this advanced weapon system.

 

Tags:

Related news & articles

Latest news

Featured