US Navy moves forward with F-35C LRASM testing

June 12, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The US Navy and Lockheed Martin have completed the first phase of the F-35C LRASM Flight Sciences Test Program after a series of integration flight tests from September 2024 to April 2026.

To reach this critical milestone, a series of flight science tests took place to validate the aircraft’s behavior with the heavy external store across the flight envelope.

For these tests, the LRASM program is using both LRASM and joint air-to-surface standoff missile (JASSM) test assets. This collaboration supports the planned integration of both LRASM and JASSM on the F-35.

LRASM’s future integration into the F-35 fleet will increase the F-35’s advanced long-range sea and land strike capabilities, expanding the F-35’s multi-role mission set. The same capabilities are already provided on the B-1B and F/A-18E/F.

“By integrating LRASM onto the F-35, we’re giving our warfighters a powerful capability that enhances mission flexibility and expands their operational options,” said Jon Hill, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Air Dominance and Strike Weapons.

“Integrating LRASM onto the proven 5th Generation F-35 is another example of how Lockheed Martin is enhancing the operational capabilities of the F-35, alongside investments from the U.S. military and its allied partners,” said Sean Jackson, vice president, F-35 Development.