Israel wants to buy JASSM cruise missiles from US

The Israeli Ministry of Defence is in negotiations with the American defence contractor Lockheed Martin to purchase a batch of JASSM air-to-surface cruise missiles.

The missile, equipped with a 450-kg warhead, boasts enhanced manoeuvrability and the ability to evade missile defence systems, and is designed for launch from aircraft, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

With a range of 930 kilometres, the missile enables aircraft to strike targets from far beyond the reach of enemy air defence systems. The cost of a single missile is approximately $1.5 million.

Currently, the missiles are in service with the United States and Australia. Poland has also received preliminary approval to purchase them.

The Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) is a family of air-launched cruise missiles developed by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. military. Its design prioritises stealth, long range, and precision, making it a formidable tool for standoff strikes. The missile is launched from aircraft at a distance, allowing the platform to remain outside the effective range of most enemy air defences, making it a strategic asset in modern warfare.

The U.S. Air Force first deployed the JASSM in the mid-2000s, and since then, its use has expanded to several allied countries. The missile is in service with the United States, Australia, and Poland, and is poised to play a pivotal role in Israel’s defence strategy if the deal proceeds. With ongoing advancements in air defence technologies, the JASSM’s capabilities offer a way for nations to maintain an edge in standoff strike operations.

By Khagan Isayev