Australia will acquire approximately 736 million Australian dollars' worth of AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missiles (JATM) through the U.S. government's Foreign Military Sales program. The deal is valued at approximately 475 million U.S. dollars.
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles announced the decision during the Pitch Black international air combat exercise in Darwin. The acquisition will make Australia the first country outside the United States to use the AIM-260 missile.
AIM-260 will initially be used on Super Hornet aircraft
The missiles, developed by Lockheed Martin, will initially be integrated into the Royal Australian Air Force's F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft.
The system is also planned for use on F-35A Lightning II and EA-18G Growler aircraft at a later stage.
Goal is to engage targets from longer ranges
Richard Marles said the investment would enhance the Australian Defence Force's ability to engage targets from longer ranges. The minister said the investment would deter potential threats and contribute to protecting the country's national interests.
The Australian government said the acquisition would strengthen its layered air and missile defense architecture, increase its long-range strike capability and improve interoperability with U.S. forces.