AIM-260 JATM

A classified US long-range air-to-air missile designed to replace the AIM-120 AMRAAM and restore a range advantage against advanced Chinese air-combat weapons.

Overview

The AIM-260A Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) is a Lockheed Martin long-range air-to-air weapon under development for the US Air Force and US Navy. It occupies the same general size class as the AIM-120 AMRAAM but is intended to provide greater reach and effectiveness while remaining compatible with the internal weapon bays of low-observable fighters. Its range, propulsion, seeker, warhead and detailed performance remain classified.

The program responds principally to the increasing reach of Chinese air-to-air missiles, especially the PL-15 and larger PL-17. The AIM-260 is intended to restore the ability of US and allied fighters to engage threatening aircraft without first entering the effective envelope of those weapons. It forms one tier of an expanding US long-range air-to-air portfolio rather than serving as the largest or longest-ranged weapon in that portfolio.

Australia announced an A$736 million acquisition in August 2026, making it the first disclosed export customer. The planned integration sequence begins with the Royal Australian Air Force's F/A-18F Super Hornet, followed by the F-35A and EA-18G Growler. The missile had not achieved initial operational capability as of September 2026, and its Australian delivery schedule remained several years away.

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