JASSM in trouble again

May 17, 2009 · Posted in Uncategorized · 3 Comments 

ELP points to a report that the troubled JASSM tactical cruise missile is again facing the prospect of program cancellation if its performance & reliability (last reported to be under 60%) do not improve in future tests.

This is a future prospect to watch out for. JASSM is supposed to be USAF’s primary door-kicker against a sophisticated IADS (along with high-end VLO assets like the B-2 and F-22, plus whatever CALCM stocks are still around). If the missile proves not to be up to the task, and CALCM cannot be counted upon or runs out, the USAF will have to rely exclusively on manned aircraft for the job – or worse, ask the USN to clear a path for them with TLAM strikes.

Because of this program’s importance, it may be likely that the necessary funding for further development will be allocated, even at the cost of stripping other ongoing projects.

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