US Moves Closer to Deploying Next-Generation AIM-260 Missile

| August 23, 2025

The United States is preparing to roll out its most advanced air-to-air missile yet — the Lockheed Martin AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) — with new budget requests signaling production may soon begin.

$1 Billion Joint Funding Request

According to budget documents cited by Bloomberg, the US Air Force and Navy have jointly requested nearly $1 billion for fiscal year 2026 (starting October 1) to kick-start production of the classified system.

The Air Force is spearheading development and has requested $368 million for its initial production run, plus $300 million on its “Unfunded Priorities List” for Congress.
The Navy has separately asked for $301 million.

When fully deployed, the AIM-260 is expected to replace the long-serving AIM-120 AMRAAM, which has been in service since 1993.

Lockheed Martin Eyes $30 Billion Boost

Analysts at Melius Research estimate the AIM-260 program could be worth $30 billion depending on production scale. This would be a major lift for Lockheed Martin, which recently reported $1.6 billion in charges and a possible $4.6 billion tax liability in its quarterly earnings.

“Profitable growth in the missiles and fire control division is extremely important for Lockheed Martin,” said Melius analyst Scott Mikus.

Designed for America’s Top Fighter Jets

The new missile is engineered to fit inside the weapons bays of F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters, while also being compatible with F-16 and F-15 aircraft.

The Air Force says the AIM-260 will offer greater range and effectiveness than current air-to-air weapons, making it a versatile choice for future combat scenarios.

Why Range Matters

Long-range air-to-air weapons have drawn global attention in recent years. In May, Pakistani jets reportedly used Chinese-made PL-15 missiles to strike Indian aircraft at ranges over 100 miles.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon’s 2024 report on China’s military power noted that Beijing’s follow-on PL-17 missile is believed capable of hitting targets from 400 km (248 miles).

By comparison, the AIM-120 AMRAAM supplied to Ukraine has a range of about 100 miles, highlighting the need for the US to field a longer-range system.

Future of Air Combat

While the Air Force has not disclosed exactly when the AIM-260 will enter service, experts believe it will become the most advanced US air-to-air missile once operational — a significant leap in America’s aerial combat capabilities.