US greenlights sale of Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units to the UK
The Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit allows it to be used for standalone ISR. (Photo: Raytheon)
The package approved by the US covers the purchase of 513 Javelin LWCLUs, associated electronics, training units, and support.
In its FMS approval notice, the US said the sale would support the US's foreign policy and national security objectives by improving the security of a NATO ally. The prime contractor for the sale would be the Javelin Joint Venture (JJV), a partnership between Lockheed Martin and Raytheon.
The Javelin LWCLU weighs 30% less than the existing command launch unit and offers twice the night-time range and three times the daytime range.
The shoulder-fired anti-armour Javelin ATGM engages targets such as MBTs using an arched top-attack profile to strike weak points in armour.
Western allies have donated significant numbers of the systems to Ukraine to aid its defence against the ongoing Russian invasion.
With large numbers of Javelin ATGMs flowing into Ukraine, western allies are looking to backfill their weapon stocks.
At Farnborough International Air show, Lockheed Martin officials told Shephard the company was looking to increase the production of Javelin missiles from 2,100 units a year to over 4,000.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
CV90 revels in northern exposure while looking for new customers (updated April 2025)
The BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90 IFV has been around for decades but continual refreshing to maintain power and relevance, along with a healthy market at home in Sweden and neighbouring countries, has led to more than 1,700 vehicle orders with 10 countries.
-
Oshkosh notches JLTV win with Dutch order
The order further extends the Oshkosh Defense production line as AM General, selected for US orders, pushes to get vehicles out the door with no room for export orders.
-
US and Europe continue moves to boost 155mm munitions production
The new US facility for 155mm artillery projectiles is a reflection of a worldwide trend which has also seen Rheinmetall and BAE Systems working to improve capability in the same area.
-
Dronebuster product line and production capability expanded
DZYNE Technologies, the maker of Dronebuster counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) devices, has announced plans to expand production and released details on a new version of the system. This follows the release of an all-in-one kit system earlier this year.
-
Ireland plans for radar capability in 2026
The Irish Government has previously outlined ambitious plans, the furthest reach of these being the possible purchase of fighter aircraft to provide a capability the country’s defence force currently doesn’t have. A more advanced procurement effort for a primary radar is being fast tracked.
-
US Army LTAMDS enters production phase
LTAMDS was approved in multiple flight trials and assessments.