JAGM Vertical-Launch Capability C-UAS Game Changer

In an era where advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS) threaten military operating bases and critical infrastructure, vertical-launch (VL) capability is becoming increasingly essential. By eliminating the need for a clear forward firing arc, vertical launch systems (VLS) allow munitions to be launched from virtually anywhere including confined maritime decks, rooftops and ground vehicles. As the global landscape of offensive and defensive operations continues to evolve, this flexibility is becoming more valuable than ever.

Recent VL live fire exercises, including the most recent JAGM Quad Launcher (JQL) demonstration, showcase how traditional air-to-ground effectors can also serve as a versatile and effective ground-, vehicle- or maritime-based C-UAS solution.

In the context of the Joint-Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM), this "launch-anywhere" capability translates into a rapid-reaction, network-centric effector that can be positioned wherever high-value assets reside. JAGM delivers a low-cost, high-reliability "plug-and-play" option for layered defense that protects maritime vessels, bases and expeditionary forces against emerging threats.

Widening the Defensive Envelope

"In today's rapid-pace environment, where information, data and threats evolve faster than ever, flexibility and versatility are essential to stay ahead of adversary threats," said Felipe Benvegnu, Lockheed Martin Mission System & Weapons Business Development Director. "By integrating JQL with JAGM vertical launch, we broaden the defensive envelope and deliver a scalable layered-defense solution that spans the full spectrum of conflict. It enables operators to field a low-cost, high-precision interceptor from platforms that were previously unable to launch missiles, delivering reliable protection wherever the mission demands."

Whether installed on a surface combatant's compact deck or on ground vehicles like the highly mobile Richard Childress Racing (RCR) 6×6 Mothership showcased in our most recent demonstration, JQL's integrated VL capability removes the need for a forward-facing corridor, delivering true "launch-anywhere" flexibility and expanding the defensive envelope far beyond what legacy launchers can achieve.

• Adaptable Open Architecture: The JQL is built on a modular, open-architecture framework that allows rapid integration with existing ship, vehicle and ground-station combat systems. The Launcher Management Assembly (LMA) uses VLS open architecture electronics, and it can be integrated with local and remote weapon control systems. This allows users to add new software updates and sensor interfaces without redesigning hardware.
• Multi-Domain Platform Application: Engineered for seamless mounting on surface-combatant decks, ground vehicles like the RCR 6x6 Mothership and other expeditionary platforms, the JQL delivers a 360-degree defensive envelope that supports air, maritime and land threat engagement from a single, common missile family. Key features of the JQL system include its pivot fixture, enabling the ease of loading and launching JAGMs at angled or vertical orientations, as well as a marinized design optimized for harsh maritime environments.
• Safe & Effective Reloadability: The launcher's rapid reload capability allows users to fire and rapidly reload individual cannister cells within a matter of minutes. In addition, the self-contained vertical missile gas management system provides enhanced safety to crew members and launching platforms, ensuring crews can sustain continuous fire without compromising personnel or system integrity.

JAGM's Dual Role Advantage

Combining a semi-active laser (SAL) with millimeter-wave (MMW) doppler radar, JAGM's dual-mode seeker gives the munition its unique ability to detect, classify and track unmanned aerial systems (e.g. low-RCS drones) in all weather and lighting conditions. JAGM is a proven, cost-effective effector, allowing each shot to cost less than a dedicated counter-UAS system would per engagement. The combination of JAGM's affordability, multi-domain lethality and lock-on-after-launch (LOAL) capability positions it as a scalable, cost-effective defensive solution.

"JAGM delivers the same lethality as a purpose-built C-UAS system but at a fraction of the cost per shot, giving our users a truly cost-effective, layered-defense option," said Casey Walsh, Lockheed Martin Multi-Domain Missile Systems Program Director. "Combining that with vertical-launch capability means we can protect any platform in any scenario with a single, proven missile."

With JAGM's ability to be rapidly deployed from a multi-missile launcher across a variety of domains, adding in its VL and counter-UAS capability makes it the latest advanced defense tool in America's arsenal of freedom.

• Advanced VL Capability: The VL approach for firing JAGM reduces the launch footprint, making it safe to install and operate the JQL on platforms and vessels with limited deck space or on forward-deployed bases where traditional angled launchers would be impractical. With JAGM VL capability, this expands the envelope of fire significantly, allowing users to protect themselves and nearby high-value assets from any bearing without repositioning the launcher or exposing the platform to additional threat.
• C-UAS Layered Defense: JAGM's dual-mode seeker (SAL/MMW) and rapid VL cycle provide a low-cost, C-UAS option that can be layered with existing electronic or directed-energy systems, protecting high-value assets (e.g. ships or bases) where the cost of the effector is measured against the value of what is being defended.
• Proven Record of Excellence: Across air, maritime and ground domains, JAGM has demonstrated consistent performance with high reliability. JAGM's multi-mode seeker provides a SAL sensor for precision-strike and a fire-and-forget millimeter wave (MMW) radar for targets in all-weather conditions, making this effector reliable and effective for mission-critical operations.

Platform Integration & Future VL Opportunities

During the recent JQL VL demonstration in January, the 90-degree JAGM launch was executed from a JQL mounted onto RCR's Mothership 6x6 platform. The Mothership is a ground-mobile platform designed to integrate advanced defense technologies and serve as a mobile platform for launching both drones and missiles, delivering a "launch-anywhere" capability across various domains.

While RCR is widely known for its endeavors in the NASCAR racing industry, they use tried-and-true engineering, manufacturing and assembly practices from the NASCAR supply chain to serve the aerospace, defense and other high-tech sectors. Since 2014, RCR Manufacturing Solutions has served as a premier sub-tier supplier for the defense industry, and the recent Lockheed Martin JQL VL demonstration is their continued partnership to provide premier quality systems and engineering that support layered defense solutions.

"Using the same manufacturing, machining, and engineering capabilities that drive our race teams and engine company, RCR Enterprises is becoming a trusted integrator in the defense space, particularly in ground mobility, as proven by our recent successful Lockheed Martin JQL VL demonstration," said Mike Verlander, President of RCR Enterprises, LLC.

The RCR Mothership 6x6 is an example of how JQL has the flexibility to be mounted onto ground vehicles, naval vessels and airborne platforms, allowing for an expansive future business growth path.

In the coming months, Lockheed Martin will demonstrate JQL's platform adaptability and JAGM's VL capability through additional live fire events. Later this year, Lockheed Martin and Saildrone will deliver proof-of-concept integrations and live fire demonstrations, showcasing Lockheed Martin's commitment to a multi-mission maritime solution that provides fleet defense, undersea surveillance, reconnaissance and strike capabilities.

Integrating JAGM's vertical-launch and C-UAS capability with JQL's flexible platform application opens new paths toward a more agile "freedom-of-movement" arsenal for both America and its allies - delivering a fast, affordable and reliable integrated system that can be deployed wherever the mission requires.