Lockheed Martin's JAGM rocket undergoes testing
Lockheed Martin is developing the AGM-179 JAGM, a promising multi-service guided missile for the Pentagon. This missile is expected to be fielded by the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. It is planned to be used on various launch vehicles and platforms using several different launchers. Currently, the JAGM is undergoing testing in conjunction with the new JQL launcher.
Single rocket
The JAGM (Joint Air-to-Ground Missile) program began in the late 2000s. The next several years were spent on the competitive portion of the program and resolving various organizational issues. Following these processes, in 2015, Lockheed Martin was awarded a contract to develop the new missile, conduct testing, and begin production.
By the early 1920s, Lockheed Martin had completed the bulk of its testing and preparations for production. Soon after, aviation The Marine Corps received the first JAGM missiles, designed for use by AH-1Z helicopters. Meanwhile, work on the AGM-179 project continued. Plans were now underway to integrate the missile with other launchers and launchers.
Since the late 2010s, development of a new launcher, the JQL (JAGM Quad Launcher), has been underway. This launcher was planned for mounting on various land and surface platforms. It was proposed to develop new land-based missile systems and supplement the armament of some ships.
At the test stage
Lockheed Martin recently completed the primary design work on the JQL project and manufactured a prototype launcher or launchers. Last year, this prototype was delivered to Yuma Missile Range, Arizona, for all necessary testing.
Rocket test launch, August 2025
The first test of the missile system, consisting of the JQL launcher and JAGM munition, took place on August 28, 2025. To demonstrate some of its combat capabilities, the launcher was positioned at a 45° angle to the horizontal. In addition to these components, the tests included the system's standard control systems and other devices. Overall, the test simulated actual combat use of the missile as closely as possible.
The combat crew of the experimental system received the necessary information, prepared the missile, and launched it. The munition successfully exited the inclined launcher, reached its target, and hit it. The tests were deemed a success. The developer emphasized the inclined launcher's placement as an important factor.
It was later announced that new tests would take place before the end of autumn. This time, a test launch from a vertically mounted launch vehicle was planned. For unknown reasons, this event was postponed for several weeks.
The tests took place several days ago at the China Lake Missile Range in California. As planned, the experimental launcher was positioned vertically and prepared for use. Following all necessary procedures, the missile was launched. The AGM-179 munition demonstrated its ability to launch vertically and maneuver with the desired inclination.
An unspecified UAV was used as a simulated target. The missile successfully targeted and destroyed it. Overall, the potential achieved through modern guidance systems and the ability to launch missiles from various positions was demonstrated.
The launcher after the rocket launch
Lockheed Martin will likely conduct further testing of the two promising systems in the foreseeable future. These tests will confirm all the calculated characteristics and reliability of the new system. After this, JAGM and JQL will have every chance of being accepted into service with the Army. fleet and the KMP. All such processes are likely to be completed within the next year or two.
A promising rocket
The AGM-179 JAGM missile is being developed as a new guided missile weapons for various carriers. In the future, it will be used by ground-based systems, aircraft, and ships. Technically, the JAGM is similar to the existing AGM-114 Hellfire and is even partially unified with it. However, there are significant differences, which are intended to provide combat and operational advantages.
Like the Hellfire, the new JAGM missile is designed in a cylindrical body with a hemispherical nose cone and a series of side surfaces. The missile is divided into several compartments housing the payload, warhead, and engine.
The AGM-179's overall length does not exceed 1,76 meters, with a body diameter of 178 mm. Its launch weight is 51 kg.
As part of the JAGM project, a new warhead module containing guidance and control equipment was developed. The missile features a combined homing head with semi-active laser and active radar channels. This combination of instruments is expected to effectively engage a variety of stationary and moving targets. The missile has previously demonstrated the ability to engage ground targets, and is now being adapted for these missions. Defense.
Different variants of the JQL launcher
A multipurpose warhead has been developed. It features a tandem architecture and can operate as either a shaped-charge or high-explosive fragmentation warhead. The detonation mode is selected before launch, taking into account the nature of the target.
The AGM-179 uses the engine compartment of one of the latest modifications of the AGM-114. Its solid-fuel motor provides supersonic speed and a range of up to 5-8 km. However, the actual range depends on the launch platform and launch characteristics. For example, launching from a moving helicopter saves engine energy and improves range. A vertical launch from the ground, on the other hand, reduces the combat radius.
Per Pentagon requirements, the JAGM missile is compatible with various launch vehicles. It has already been adapted for use by AH-1Z helicopters. It is now expected to be deployed on the AH-64 and possibly other modern helicopters. Use by heavy reconnaissance and attack UAVs is also possible. Shipborne and vehicle-mounted deployments are being explored.
Quadruple installation
Land and sea-based carriers are to use the AGM-179 cross-service missile with a specially designed JQL launcher. This system is compatible with various carriers and is designed to ensure the safe storage and use of munitions. Furthermore, Lockheed Martin promises all the benefits associated with commonality.
The JQL is a relatively compact device with a set of necessary components. It consists of four missile cells arranged in a square. These can be supplemented by a vertical gas vent, various types of covers, etc. Furthermore, the system includes a control panel, which is optimally located. The dimensions of the system are determined by the dimensions of the munition.
A JAGM missile launched from an AH-1Z helicopter.
The JQL launcher can be mounted on vehicles with suitable specifications. Promotional materials depict standard military vehicles with one or two vertical mounts. However, recent tests have demonstrated the feasibility of mounting the launcher at an angle.
A ship or boat, depending on space and capacity, can carry a vertical installation on or below deck. An exposed, inclined installation is also possible.
For airborne platforms, the AGM-179 missile does not require specially designed devices. It is compatible with existing racks designed for Hellfire missiles.
New successes
Thus, Lockheed Martin continues to work on the new cross-service guided missile and associated systems. Successes are being demonstrated under test range conditions, and the calculated characteristics are being validated. The JAGM and JQL systems will likely return to testing soon, demonstrating their new capabilities.
Based on the results of current testing and related refinement, the new missile and its operating components may enter service. Barring any serious problems or delays, this will occur in the coming years. However, the exact timeframe for its adoption by all branches of the armed forces has not yet been announced.
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