About JAGM and JAGM-MR
- Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM), also known as AGM-179, has a multi-mode seeker that provides an improved semi-active laser (SAL) sensor for accuracy and millimeter wave (MMW) radar provides capability against countermeasures and enhances accuracy in all-weather types versus moving target.
- On January 14, 2026, Lockheed Martin conducted a successful 90-degree launch of a Joint-Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) from the JAGM Quad Launcher (JQL) during a demonstration in China Lake, California. The successful first-time shot showcased the versatility of the JQL launcher, which was mounted to a Richard Childress Racing 6x6 Mothership vehicle, and highlighted JAGM’s ability to neutralize UAS threat systems.
- This demonstration validated JAGM’s full vertical‑launch capability to be utilized across multiple platforms, including integration onto surface‑combatant vessels which delivers a 360‑degree defensive envelope for maritime vessels and platforms.
- In response to the evolving threat landscape, the successful engagement of a UAS threat with JAGM underscores the missile’s ability to detect, track and neutralize hostile threats including drones, unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) and other air threats.
- In August 2025, Lockheed Martin successfully conducted a JAGM Quad Launcher (JQL) ground-based demonstration, marking a significant development milestone for the vertical launching system (VLS). Held on August 28 at Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona, the demonstration showcased the successful integration of the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) with the JQL, culminating in a first-time launch event.
- In late 2025, the U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $720 million contract for the production of Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGM) and HELLFIRE missiles, marking the fourth and final follow-on award as part of its current multiple-year contract.
- The contract includes key Foreign Military Sales (FMS) including 160 JAGMs for the United Kingdom. The award also includes HELLFIRE FMS orders for key NATO allies Poland, Spain, Czech Republic and Italy. In addition, the contract award includes new HELLFIRE international customer Canada.
- Combining a SAL and MMW doppler radar, JAGM’s dual-mode seeker gives the munition its unique ability to detect, classify and track unmanned aerial systems (e.g. low-RCS drones) in all weather and lighting conditions. JAGM is a proven, cost-effective effector, allowing each shot to cost less than a dedicated counter‑UAS system would per engagement. The combination of JAGM’s affordability, multi‑domain lethality and lock‑on‑after‑launch (LOAL) capability positions it as a scalable, cost‑effective defensive solution.
- The VL approach for firing JAGM reduces the launch footprint, making it safe to install and operate the JQL on platforms and vessels with limited deck space or on forward‑deployed bases where traditional angled launchers would be impractical. With JAGM VL capability, this expands the envelope of fire significantly, allowing users to protect themselves and nearby high‑value assets from any bearing without repositioning the launcher or exposing the platform to additional threat.
- JAGM’s dual‑mode seeker (SAL/MMW) and rapid VL cycle provide a low‑cost, C‑UAS option that can be layered with existing electronic or directed‑energy systems, protecting high‑value assets (e.g. ships or bases) where the cost of the effector is measured against the value of what is being defended.
- Across air, maritime and ground domains, JAGM has demonstrated consistent performance with high reliability. JAGM’s multi-mode seeker provides a SAL sensor for precision-strike and a fire-and-forget millimeter wave (MMW) radar for targets in all-weather conditions, making this effector reliable and effective for mission‑critical operations.
