The United States is poised to begin production of its most advanced air-to-air missile, the Lockheed Martin AIM-260, in a direct response to advancements in Chinese military technology. This move, revealed in recent budget documents, comes after incidents like Pakistan’s use of Chinese-made PL-15 missiles to engage Indian aircraft from over 100 miles away, showcasing the strategic need for ultra-long-range weapons that can neutralize threats without entering their engagement zone.
The US Air Force and Navy have jointly requested nearly $1 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to fund the initial production of the classified missile system, formally known as the Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. The Air Force, leading the development, has asked for $368 million in its base budget and an additional $300 million on its “Unfunded Priorities List,” while the Navy has sought $301 million. This significant funding underscores the program’s high priority for Pentagon planners.
Analysts project the AIM-260 program could grow into a $30 billion enterprise for Lockheed Martin, providing a crucial financial boost. The company’s missiles and fire control division is seen as vital for growth, though analysts caution that managing costs on this classified program will be key to its profitability and avoiding the large charges that have recently impacted the defense contractor.
Designed to replace the decades-old AIM-120 AMRAAM, the AIM-260 promises a vastly increased range and effectiveness against evolving threats. It is engineered to fit inside the internal weapons bays of fifth-generation F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters and will also be integrated onto F-15 and F-16 jets. This development signals a new chapter in aerial combat, ensuring the US maintains its air superiority against competitors like China, whose PL-17 missile is believed to have an even more staggering range of nearly 250 miles.
