The F-35 Stealth Fighter Equipped with Long-Range Anti-Ship Missiles

An F-35 was captured on camera for the first time carrying the stealthy long-range anti-ship missiles crucial for potential confrontations with China. The US military shared a photo this week showcasing an F-35 armed with the AGM-158C LRASM, a significant development in enhancing anti-ship capabilities.

Stealth Fighter Armed with LRASM

The US military released photos for the first time depicting a fifth-generation F-35 fighter equipped with a stealthy long-range anti-ship missile, the AGM-158C LRASM. This milestone highlights the military's growing emphasis on anti-ship capabilities, especially in response to the strengthening naval forces of countries like China.

Integration Efforts and Military Strategy

The F-35, lacking a dedicated anti-ship missile, benefits significantly from the addition of the AGM-158C LRASM. This precision-guided, air-launched cruise missile, operational since 2018, expands strike options for the US Air Force and Navy in maritime operations. Efforts to integrate the LRASM with the carrier-based F-35 showcase the military's commitment to enhancing anti-ship capabilities across various platforms.

LRASM Features and Deployment

The AGM-158C LRASM, an anti-ship variant of the JASSM, offers semi-autonomous guidance and a range of approximately 200 nautical miles. Despite being unable to be internally carried due to size constraints, the LRASM provides a significant firepower boost to the F-35 while compromising some stealth capabilities. The weapon serves as a critical solution for engaging high-threat maritime targets.

Cost Considerations and Strategic Focus

While the LRASM proves effective in maritime warfare, its cost exceeds $3 million per missile, prompting the US to explore more cost-effective alternatives like the QUICKSINK experimental weapon. Recent testing of anti-ship weapons, including the F-35 and LRASM, underscores the US military's drive to diversify strike options in maritime operations, particularly in response to the evolving challenges posed by China.

Anti-ship capabilities, such as those demonstrated by the F-35 armed with LRASM, play a pivotal role in potential conflicts with adversaries like China. Stand-off weapons like LRASM enable American aircraft to engage enemy targets from a safe distance, reducing exposure to hostile air defenses.

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By: jepstein@businessinsider.com (Jake Epstein)
Title: The F-35 Stealth Fighter Equipped with Long-Range Anti-Ship Missiles
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/f-35-photographed-long-range-anti-ship-missile-in-first-2024-9
Published Date: Wed, 25 Sep 2024 16:30:36 +0000