VIVAERO

F-35B makes maiden flight carrying Lockheed Martin anti-ship missiles

Lockheed Martin’s F-35B has made its maiden flight carrying the AGM-158B Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), marking a significant advancement in the capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter.

The test was conducted from the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command complex in Patuxent River, Maryland, and during the mission, a missile was carried under each wing, launching a test program for the combination.

This development is part of the F-35’s Block 4 upgrade, which integrates AGM-158 strike systems (including the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile – JASSM and LRASM) for external carriage on the aircraft, increasing its multi-role mission capabilities.

Last September, a variant of the F-35C, intended for aircraft carrier operations, was also equipped with two LRASM missiles for the first time.

Jon Hill, vice president and general manager, Air Dominance and Strike Weapons, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said, “The integration of the AGM-158 family of strike systems provides increased range and lethality against highly protected strategic targets.”

The JASSM/LRASM missiles, which have a launch weight of approximately 2,000 lbs. (907 kg), are too large to be stored in the F-35’s internal weapons bays, making their external carry capability essential.

This innovation not only expands the F-35’s weapons options, but also enhances its role as a multi-role platform in modern combat scenarios.

With these enhancements, the F-35B is increasingly becoming a vital asset to the U.S. Navy’s combat force, prepared to effectively counter maritime threats with enhanced responsiveness.