Lockheed Martin demonstrates tri-mode seeker and multiple target discrimination with JAGM-MR.

Lockheed Martin successfully conducted an AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missile - Medium Range, or JAGM-MR, guided flight test on Dec. 2, 2023, at China Lake Test Range in California. The successful flight test demonstrated JAGM-MR’s tri-mode seeker and its ability to aid the missile to successfully discriminate between multiple targets.

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In its basic version, the JAGM missile system can engage targets up to 8 kilometers (5 miles) away. However, the enhanced JAGM-MR variant significantly extends this capability, with its range at least doubling (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)

In its basic version, the JAGM missile system can engage targets up to 8 kilometers (5 miles) away. However, the enhanced JAGM-MR variant significantly extends this capability, with its range at least doubling. This was proven in a trial at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake in California on November 16. In this test, a ground-launched JAGM-MR missile successfully hit a target 16 kilometers (10 miles) distant.

“This next-generation weapon system offers greater accuracy in both target discrimination and recognition, delivering mission-focused capabilities that will provide our customers with an innovative 21st-century security solution,” said Joey Drake, program management director of Air-to-Ground Missile Systems at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “The enhanced tri-mode seeker provides a new level of precision guidance and defense capabilities, allowing JAGM-MR to lock onto the selected target even when there are multiple targets in the field.”

JAGM-MR’s tri-mode seeker employs a near-infrared (NIR) sensor, which is a third sensor incorporated into the guidance system compared to JAGM, which utilizes a dual-mode sensor system. The NIR sensor enhances missile performance, allowing for improved target tracking and guidance over a range of conditions and target sets.

“We’re investing in the future of our JAGM product line because not only will it help address much-needed capabilities by our customers, but it will provide them with a turnkey solution for the challenges that they face in today’s complex threat environment,” said Drake.

While last year’s successful live fire event demonstrated JAGM-MR’s 16 km increased range capability, this year’s guided flight test demonstrated the maturity of the fully functioning tri-mode seeker while concurrently highlighting its ability to target engagement at an increased stand-off range.

JAGM is designed and developed in Orlando, Florida. The weapon system is manufactured across various Lockheed Martin facilities in Dallas; Orlando and Ocala, Florida.; Archibald, Pennsylvania.; and Troy, Alabama. With more than 125,000 Hellfire and JAGM missiles produced, JAGM and JAGM-MR are the next-generation systems of choice in critical, precision engagement opportunities.