Archive · 23 Aug 2025
US Military Seeks Funds for New Lockheed Martin Missile
The US military wants to buy a new, super-secret missile from Lockheed Martin called the AIM-260.
The Air Force and Navy have requested nearly a billion dollars to start making it.
This missile is being made to shoot down enemy planes from far away.
It's like a really long-range bullet for fighter jets.
It will be able to hit targets much further away than current missiles, helping the US keep its advantage in the sky.
The AIM-260 is designed to fit in many fighter jets, including F-22 and F-35, and may also be used on unmanned aircraft.
The US Air Force and Navy are seeking nearly $1 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to begin producing the Lockheed Martin AIM-260 missile.
The AIM-260, also known as the Joint Advanced Tactical Missile, has been under development for eight years.
The Air Force leads the AIM-260 development and requested $368 million for initial production, with the Navy requesting $301 million.
The new missile aims to counter advanced threats, including the Chinese PL-15 missile, and will have a greater range than existing air-to-air weapons.
The AIM-260 is designed for integration with F-22, F-35, F-16, and F-15 fighter jets, potentially extending to unmanned aircraft.
- Who
- The US Air Force and Navy, along with Lockheed Martin, are involved.
- What
- The US Air Force and Navy are seeking funding for the AIM-260 missile.
- When
- Funding is sought for the 2026 fiscal year, starting October 1.
- Where
- The missile is being developed and will be deployed by the US Air Force and Navy.
- Why
- To maintain US air superiority and counter advanced threats.
- Missile Name
- AIM-260 (Joint Advanced Tactical Missile)
- Requested Funding
- Nearly $1 billion for 2026 fiscal year
- Lead Service
- US Air Force
- Development Time
- Eight years
- Primary Developer
- Lockheed Martin
- Target Aircraft
- F-22, F-35, F-16, F-15, and potentially unmanned aircraft