The Japanese Ministry of Defense has signed a letter of acceptance to procure Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles Extended Range (JASSM-ER) from the US.
A total of 50 JASSM-ER missiles and related equipment were approved by the US State Department for sale to Japan for $104 million in August last year.
The missiles will be installed on the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s (JASDF) upgraded F-15 fighters, according to Traffic News.
Missile Features
JASSM-ER’s stand-off range of 900 kilometers (559 miles) will allow Japanese aircraft to strike targets without the risk of enemy air-to-air or anti-aircraft missiles.
Moreover, its stealth characteristics, such as the ability to fold its wings and vertical tail after being dropped from the aircraft, allow it to evade enemy air defenses.
It can also change direction to puzzle adversary air defenses and features a 450-kilogram (992-pound) WDU-42/B penetrator warhead with an accuracy of 3 meters (10 feet).
The missile is guided by an INS/GPS system and an infrared seeker for terminal guidance.
Upgraded F-15s
A total of 98 JASDF F-15s will be upgraded under the $4.5 billion Japan Super Interceptor program, featuring the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar, advanced display core processor II mission system computers, and ALQ-239 digital electronic warfare system.
The missile will be a crucial kinetic component of the upgrade, allowing the aircraft to take out high-priority and time-sensitive targets such as missile launch sites in counter strike operations.
Additionally, Tokyo procured the Kongsberg Joint Strike Missile last year for its F-35A fighter aircraft, with delivery expected in 2026.
The Joint Strike Missile is the air-launched version of the Naval Strike Missile, specifically designed for the F-35A/C.
It features a range of 350 miles (563 kilometers) and carries a 260-pound (118-kilogram) warhead.
