The AGM-158C LRASM is a stealthy, autonomous cruise missile that hunts ships without GPS.

Wars & Conflicts · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Developed by DARPA and Lockheed Martin, the AGM-158C LRASM represents a shift in naval warfare. Unlike traditional missiles that rely on constant data links or GPS, this weapon uses advanced artificial intelligence and passive sensors to independently identify and strike moving targets in contested, high-threat environments.

The AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) was conceived as a sophisticated successor to the U.S. Navy's aging Harpoon missile, which has been in service since 1977. Initiated in 2009, the program sought to address critical deficiencies in range and survivability. By 2014, the Pentagon authorized limited production as an urgent stop-gap to counter the modernization of the People's Liberation Army Navy, a priority that had been neglected since the Cold War ended.

Technically, the LRASM is derived from the AGM-158B JASSM-ER airframe. It integrates a BAE Systems-designed seeker suite that combines jam-resistant GPS/INS with imaging infrared homing and passive electronic support measures. This multi-mode capability allows the missile to navigate autonomously, even if GPS or data-link signals are jammed or unavailable. It can fly at medium altitudes before descending for a sea-skimming approach, using its low-RCS airframe to evade enemy defenses. The missile is designed to distinguish between targets and neutral shipping in crowded waters, and multiple units can coordinate in a swarm to overwhelm adversaries.

While initially focused on air-launch platforms like the B-1B Lancer and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the program has explored surface-launch variants using the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System. Development has been iterative, with successful flight tests demonstrating autonomous target acquisition against moving ships as early as 2013. By 2018, the missile reached initial operational capability on the B-1B, followed by the Super Hornet in 2019. The program continues to evolve, with integration efforts for the P-8 Poseidon and F-35 variants, while international interest has grown, including a significant acquisition by Australia.

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