Now, the F-35 Stealth Fighter has transformed into an electronic warfare powerhouse.

 

The Pentagon recently awarded Lockheed Martin a contract valued at nearly $100 million to integrate the AGM-88G High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARMs) on all three variants of the F-35 Lighting II stealth fighter jet. The move is likely a response to a limited stock of the more advanced version and aims to ensure a sufficient supply of anti-radar munitions until production of the AAGM-88E catches up.

The AGM-88 HARM is a high-speed, air-to-ground tactical missile designed to neutralize enemy radars and air defense systems, facilitating subsequent air strikes by other aircraft. Manufactured by Raytheon, it entered service in 1984, costs approximately $200,000 per unit, and boasts supersonic speeds, a high explosive warhead, and a range of up to 30 miles (48 kilometers). Measuring 13 feet in length and weighing 800 pounds, it remains a potent asset.

Ukrainian forces have received AGM-88 HARMs, adapting their Su-25 Frogfoot, Su-27 Flanker, and MiG-29 Fulcrum aircraft to accommodate the munition. The Ukrainian Air Force has effectively employed the AGM-88 HARM to suppress Russian air defense systems near the battlefield and strategic targets, catching the Russian military off guard. With the imminent introduction of the F-16 Fighting Falcon into Ukrainian service, the country's Air Force will enhance its capabilities for electronic warfare missions.

The integration of AGM-88 HARMs will benefit various branches of the U.S. military, including the Air Force (F-35A), Navy (F-35C), and Marine Corps (F-35B and F-35C), as well as foreign military sales participants and non-Department of Defense participants within the F-35 program.

The contract requires Lockheed Martin, the F-35 Lightning II manufacturer, to reprogram laboratory equipment in the latest batches of aircraft. The AGM-88 HARM, traditionally associated with the F-16 Fighting Falcon, has found compatibility with a broader range of aircraft through the upgraded AAGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile, including the F-35 Lightning II series, F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet, and E/A-18G Growler.