AGM-158C LRASM

Full Specifications

AGM-158C LRASM: Long Range Anti-Ship Missile

The AGM-158C LRASM (Long Range Anti-Ship Missile) represents a significant advancement in U.S. naval strike capabilities, designed to counter sophisticated integrated air defense systems and heavily defended surface fleets. Derived from the combat-proven AGM-158 JASSM-ER family, this stealthy cruise missile enables aircraft to engage high-value maritime targets from safe standoff distances in contested environments, such as those in the Indo-Pacific. It combines low-observability features with advanced autonomous navigation and targeting to penetrate defended airspace and deliver decisive effects against enemy warships.

Manufacturer

The LRASM was developed through a collaborative effort led by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in partnership with the U.S. Navy and Air Force. Lockheed Martin serves as the primary manufacturer and integrator, building on its expertise with the JASSM program. Production supports both U.S. services and allies, including integration efforts for the Royal Australian Air Force.

Speed and Range

The AGM-158C achieves high-subsonic speeds, powered by a Williams F107-WR-105 turbofan engine. Its operational range is estimated at over 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 km), with some sources indicating capabilities approaching 500 nautical miles (926 km) in extended configurations, depending on mission profile and payload. This allows for sea-skimming terminal approaches that enhance survivability against shipboard defenses.

Cost/Price

The unit cost for the AGM-158C LRASM is approximately $3.24 million (FY24), reflecting advanced guidance, stealth, and sensor technologies. Multi-year procurement efforts aim to reduce per-unit costs through higher production volumes.

The missile features a low radar cross-section airframe for enhanced stealth, passive sensors to minimize emissions, and AI-assisted algorithms for target discrimination in cluttered maritime environments. It carries a 1,000 lb (453.6 kg) WDU-42/B high-explosive blast-fragmentation penetrator warhead, effective against large surface combatants. Launched primarily from platforms like the B-1B Lancer and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, with ongoing integration for the F-35 and others, the LRASM provides flexible, precision maritime strike options. It supports both air-launched and surface-launched variants, with potential for broader platform compatibility.