The US Army is demonstrating its commitment to enhancing its anti-armor capabilities with a further $1.3-billion order for Javelin anti-tank missiles.
This marks the first time a follow-on order was made to the massive $7.2-billion Javelin deal the service inked with Lockheed Martin and Raytheon in May 2023.
According to Javelin Joint Venture (JJV) President Andy Amaro, the additional order underscores the weapon’s reputation as the most effective and combat-proven anti-armor weapon in the world.
“Through this contract, we will continue to produce and deliver this needed capability to support global ground forces in their efforts to protect and defend their interests and sovereignty,” he said.
The JJV did not say how many Javelin missiles are covered by the follow-on order.
Ramping Up Production
In 2022, Lockheed Martin said it would ramp up the production of Javelin missiles in anticipation of a surge in demand due to the Ukraine war.
Since then, it has been producing 2,400 missiles per year — a 15-percent increase over the previous year.
But as geopolitical conflicts emerge in other parts of the world, the joint venture saw the need to further increase its production to 3,960 Javelins annually by 2026.
“This is being accomplished by employing new tooling and test equipment, improving the efficiency of our production line, and partnering with our already-active supply chain,” Lockheed stated.
Staying Ahead of Ready
The Javelin is a versatile, shoulder-fired weapon designed to neutralize tanks and other heavily armored assets.
It boasts a fire-and-forget capability, allowing operators to hit beyond line-of-sight targets.
With more than 20 years of proven performance, the weapon has been involved in major armed conflicts, including the Iraq war in 2003 and the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war.
According to JJV VP Dave Pantano, the “mission-focused” capabilities of the Javelin missiles allow military customers to “stay ahead of ready” in defending against threats.