Missile AIM-260 JATM

The AIM-260 program commenced in 2017 in response to long-range air-to-air missiles developed by potential adversaries, specifically the Chinese PL-15. It is a Special Access Program. Aerial target testing began in April 2020, and live-fire testing was slated to begin in 2023. While the missile has not yet achieved initial operational capability due to integration issues on fifth-generation fighters, it entered initial production in 2024. The program is the priority air-delivered weapon for the United States Air Force and Navy, with production expected to surpass that of the AIM-120 by 2026.

The AIM-260 is a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile utilizing a high explosive blast-fragmentation warhead. It incorporates a propellant developed to provide increased range over previous systems. The missile maintains physical dimensions similar to the AIM-120 to ensure compatibility with existing launch platform technology and internal carriage. It is designed for use by both manned aircraft and unmanned Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

The missile is being integrated into the United States Air Force and United States Navy inventories. Initial launch platforms are the F-22 Raptor and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, with integration planned for the F-35 Lightning II and F-15EX Eagle II. Australia is the first foreign country to procure the system, with deliveries scheduled for 2033. Custom storage vaults have been constructed at Hill Air Force Base to accommodate the missile inventory due to the classified nature of the program.