US ramps up AIM-260 missile production with $736M Australia deal

Lockheed Martin signed a framework agreement with the US Department of Defense to accelerate production and delivery of the AIM-260 JATM missile; the multi-year contract still requires Congressional approval. Australia will invest about $736 million to equip its air force with these missiles. The AIM-260's range exceeds existing air-to-air missiles, and it integrates with F-22 and F-35.

• Australia to invest nearly $736 million in AIM-260 for its air force
• Multi-year procurement contract requires US Congressional approval
• Missile compatible with F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II fighters
• Program run jointly by Lockheed Martin, US Air Force and Navy