US Expands Strategic Missile Production: $9.5 Billion Investment Signals Readiness

Amid rising global instability, the US Department of Defense has signed a $9.5 billion contract with Lockheed Martin to massively increase production of advanced JASSM missiles and their anti-ship variants, LRASM. According to the company’s official statement from July 31, this effort will equip both US forces and allied militaries with enhanced long-range strike capabilities.

The contract, which runs through 2033, also includes orders for Poland, Japan, the Netherlands, and Finland, emphasizing Washington’s priority to strengthen allied military capabilities amid a new era of strategic competition. The funding, now totaling $9.5 billion, represents the largest expansion in the history of the long-range cruise missile program.

Why These Missiles Matter

The AGM-158 JASSM is a precision-guided, air-to-ground cruise missile designed to strike fortified targets from beyond the reach of enemy air defenses. Its extended-range version (JASSM-ER) can reach distances of over 930 km and is deployable from platforms like the F-35 and strategic bombers. The LRASM variant targets ships and operates autonomously in GPS-denied environments.

Both missiles feature stealth designs, AI-guided navigation, and advanced terminal seekers. These weapons are built not for asymmetric threats, but to counter technologically advanced adversaries with layered air and sea defenses.

Smart Factory, Smart Strategy

To meet demand, Lockheed Martin is rapidly expanding its production facility in Troy, Alabama. The site includes a new 225,000-square-foot “smart” factory with automated assembly lines and predictive analytics — a next-gen production model that is already operational.

This latest investment builds on earlier funding: in August 2024, Lockheed received $129 million for new equipment, followed by another $3.2 billion in September 2024 to scale up missile production. The full funding history is well documented.

Timing and Strategic Relevance

With continued war in Ukraine, maritime tension near Taiwan, and growing pressure in the South China Sea, the Pentagon is investing in capabilities suited for a prolonged, high-intensity conflict. Long-range precision munitions are now a strategic priority. Alongside this $9.5 billion deal, the US has also awarded $3.5 billion for AMRAAM missile procurement.

The total surge exceeds $13 billion and reflects a broader effort to replenish arsenals drawn down by military support for Ukraine and preparation for potential regional conflicts. Analysts estimate that even at current rates — roughly 1,100 missiles per year — it would take 4–5 years to fully restock at the desired levels, as reported by FlightGlobal.

Conclusion

• 🔹 The US is significantly boosting its stockpile of precision-guided, long-range missiles.
• 🔹 Lockheed Martin’s upgraded facilities will support JASSM-ER and LRASM mass production.
• 🔹 Allies in Europe and Asia are integrated into the supply chain, expanding NATO’s defense depth.
• 🔹 These investments align with Washington’s broader deterrence strategy in response to near-peer threats.