Lockheed Martin’s latest development – the AGM-158 XR missile with “extreme range” – is set for its initial flights this year
Cruise missile AGM-158 XR / © Lockheed Martin
The USA is preparing for the testing of a new version of the AGM-158 XR cruise missile, capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 1800 km. This positions it as a potential competitor to the renowned Tomahawk.
This is reported by Axios and Defence Express.
American company Lockheed Martin plans to conduct the first flight tests of a new modification of the AGM-158 JASSM family of cruise missiles – the AGM-158 XR (eXtreme Range), which will feature a significantly increased engagement range, by the end of the year.
The company also announced its intention to make the AGM-158 a more modular system. This will allow for swift adaptation of the missile to different range parameters and types of warheads.
AGM-158 XR — missile characteristics and features
Defence Express notes that official data on the maximum range of the AGM-158 XR has not yet been disclosed. However, preliminary estimates suggest this figure could range from 1600 to 1800 km. For comparison, the AGM-158B JASSM-ER variant has a range of up to 980 km.
Therefore, the AGM-158 “extreme range” version could potentially have an engagement radius equal to or even exceeding that of the BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missile, which in its modern variants can strike targets up to 1600 km away.
However, unlike the BGM-109 Tomahawk, the AGM-158 XR is an air-launched missile. Its carriers could include F-35 Lightning II, F/A-18E Super Hornet, F-15E Strike Eagle fighters, as well as all US strategic bombers – B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit, B-52 Stratofortress, and in the future, the new B-21 Raider.
Concurrently, alternative launch options exist – from naval or ground platforms via the universal Mk 41 Vertical Launching System, as well as from transport aircraft via palletized air drops thanks to the Rapid Dragon system.
For direct target engagement, the AGM-158 XR is equipped with a 450 kg penetrating warhead. However, given its likely modular design, experts have speculated that the missile could also utilize other types of payloads.
Other characteristics of the new missile remain unknown for now. Despite the AGM-158 XR being unveiled two years ago, the manufacturer has yet to reveal its full capabilities and technical specifications. Nevertheless, its flight speed and guidance systems are likely to be similar to previous modifications.
Specifically, a maximum speed of around 1000 km/h is expected, and the guidance system will likely include inertial navigation, GPS, TERCOM for terrain-following, and an infrared seeker for the terminal phase of flight.
Incidentally, the USA is involving auto giants General Motors and Ford in the production of Patriot and Tomahawk missiles. President Donald Trump stated that the companies are in talks about repurposing their factories for defense needs. This move aims to ramp up armament production to replenish American stockpiles that have been depleted following recent conflicts.
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