CHINA LAKE, California. For the first time, 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 BIG PICTURE
- In the demonstration, JAGM proved its ability to neutralize UAS threat systems.
- It also demonstrated the versatility of the JQL launcher, which was mounted to a Richard Childress Racing 6×6 Mothership vehicle.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Validating JAGM & JQL full vertical-launch capability: This demonstration validated JAGM’s full vertical‑launch capability across multiple platforms, including surface‑combatant vessels, which provides a 360‑degree defensive envelope for maritime vessels and other platforms. With JAGM’s advanced dual-mode seeker (SAL/MMW), this integration effort presents JAGM as the ideal munition solution for the U.S. Navy and its allies’ mission-critical needs.
- Showcasing counter-UAS technology: 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. This is an increasingly vital capability that modern naval forces need to address emerging threats.
- Multidomain mission integration: The integration of JAGM with the JQL highlights Lockheed Martin’s ability to provide flexible, mission‑tailored deployment across air, sea and land environments. Operators can select from a range of engagement envelopes to meet specific user mission objectives.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVES
- “The successful JQL vertical‑launch demonstration confirms that JAGM can be rapidly deployed from a multimissile launcher across a variety of scenarios, while delivering the network‑centric integration our global users demand,” said Casey Walsh, program management director, Lockheed Martin Multi-Domain Missile Systems. “This milestone validates our vision of a unified missile architecture that seamlessly operates across air, land and sea domains, enhancing survivability and flexibility for future combat operations.”
- “Lockheed Martin continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in vertical launch system development, driving innovation and advancement in the field,” said Edward Dobeck, director, Lockheed Martin Launching Systems. “This proven combat-ready capability meets multidomain deployment objectives today, and provides the same reliability expected of all our launching systems.”
