BAE Systems builds ‘next-generation’ LRASM seekers
Rendering of the air-launched AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile . (Photo: BAE Systems)
BAE Systems gains seeker production contract for stealthy anti-ship missile.
BAE Systems announced on 26 July that it has received a $117 million contract from Lockheed Martin to produce ‘next-generation’ missile seekers for the AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).
The LRASM contract supports missiles for the USAF, USN and overseas allies under the FMS programme, as well as R&D, test and evaluation services.
Following design improvements conducted under a Diminishing Sources/Affordability contract, BAE Systems is producing next-generation seekers for Lots 4 and 5 production ‘that are more capable and easier to produce, with less-complicated manufacturing processes’, the company claimed.
It added: ‘The next-generation seekers replace obsolescent and limited-availability parts, dramatically reducing the system cost.’
The seeker technology enables LRASM to detect and engage specific maritime targets in contested environments with less dependence on traditional navigation systems, BAE Systems added.
Bruce Konigsberg, Radio Frequency Sensors product area director at BAE Systems. ‘We’ve designed efficient seeker systems that are easier to build and test without compromising on performance.’
According to Shephard Defence Insight, LRASM is designed to detect and destroy specific targets within groups of ships by employing advanced technologies that reduce dependence on ISR platforms, network links and GPS navigation in EW environments.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures]()
India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures
Delays, dwindling squadrons and global competition spur belated momentum in airpower procurement.
-
![Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI join forces to co-develop UAVs]()
Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI join forces to co-develop UAVs
The $510 million partnership will see Hanwha invest to co-develop and manufacture the Gray Eagle STOL, with a maiden flight test expected by 2027.
-
![Colombia confirms Gripen E/F buy, final negotiations still underway]()
Colombia confirms Gripen E/F buy, final negotiations still underway
The country was reportedly “months” away from an official aircraft selection, as of mid-March 2025.
-
![Portugal joins Embraer and Brazil on C-390 ISR capabilities study]()
Portugal joins Embraer and Brazil on C-390 ISR capabilities study
The ongoing study was first announced by Embraer in late 2024 with the Brazilian Air Force, with this latest addition announced during the LAAD defence and security exhibition.
-
![Philippines approved for potential $5.5 billion F-16 aircraft purchase]()
Philippines approved for potential $5.5 billion F-16 aircraft purchase
The potential sale, approved by the US to the Philippines, is for 20 F-16 Block 70/72 jets, days after US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth visited the country.
-
![Sweden commits to acquire four C-390 Millennium aircraft]()
Sweden commits to acquire four C-390 Millennium aircraft
The acquisition of four C-390 aircraft follows the country’s signing of an MoU in 2023 and formal selection in 2024. It will join the existing contract held by the Netherlands and Austria.
