Lockheed Martin Enhances Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers with AGM-179 JAGM Missiles

In a significant move to bolster the firepower of its naval fleet, Lockheed Martin has introduced the AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) to the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. This upgrade comes as a response to the evolving threats posed by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and fast attack craft (FAC), particularly those deployed by the Houthis.

The AGM-179 JAGM missiles are set to replace the RGM-84 Harpoon launchers, which have been a staple on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers for decades. The Harpoon missiles, while effective, are primarily designed for anti-ship warfare. The introduction of JAGM missiles brings a new level of versatility and firepower to these destroyers, making them more capable of handling a wider range of threats.

The AGM-179 JAGM is a multipurpose missile designed to combat UAVs and provide fire support from the sea. Each Arleigh Burke-class destroyer can now carry up to 24 additional rechargeable JAGM missiles. This enhancement significantly boosts the ship's ability to engage and neutralize various types of targets, including drones and small, fast-moving boats.

The new design, first showcased at the Surface Navy Association (SNA) Symposium in 2025, features two rows of vertical launchers, each containing twelve missiles. This configuration allows for a more efficient use of space and ensures that the destroyers can maintain a high rate of fire. The vertical launchers are a direct replacement for the Harpoon launchers, seamlessly integrating into the existing infrastructure of the Arleigh Burke-class ships.

The decision to upgrade the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers with JAGM missiles is a direct response to the challenges faced by the U.S. Navy in recent years. The proliferation of UAVs and FAC, particularly by non-state actors like the Houthis, has necessitated the development of new combat modules. The JAGM missiles provide a robust solution to these threats, ensuring that the U.S. Navy remains at the forefront of naval warfare.

With the integration of AGM-179 JAGM missiles, Lockheed Martin has once again demonstrated its commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the U.S. Navy. This upgrade not only modernizes the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers but also prepares them for the complex and dynamic threats of the future. As the naval landscape continues to evolve, such innovations will be crucial in maintaining the U.S. Navy's superiority on the high seas.