Lockheed Martin and the F-35 Pax River Integrated Test Force (ITF) have successfully completed the initial integration flight test of the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) on the F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet. This achievement builds on the previous successful LRASM integration test with the F-35C variant in September 2024.
The integration of LRASM marks a pivotal step in the ongoing F-35 Block 4 upgrade program, aiming to significantly expand the aircraft’s strike capabilities and effectiveness against high-value, heavily defended maritime targets. The AGM-158 missile family, including LRASM, provides exceptional standoff range, precision strike capability, and survivability, greatly enhancing the combat potential of the F-35B.
Jon Hill, Vice President and General Manager of Air Dominance and Strike Weapons at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, emphasized the strategic significance of integrating advanced strike systems, enabling the F-35 to effectively counter evolving threats. Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 program, highlighted this successful test as evidence of Lockheed Martin’s commitment to ensuring the F-35 maintains unmatched air superiority for decades.
With more than 1,100 F-35 jets operational globally and nearly a million flight hours logged, Lockheed Martin continues to push the envelope, integrating cutting-edge weapon systems to sustain the platform’s strategic advantage in future combat scenarios.
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Edited: Katerina Urbanova
