U.S. Navy to Integrate LRASM into USAF’s B-52 Strategic Bombers

The U.S. Navy announced plans to contract Lockheed Martin to integrate AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM) on the Air Force’s B-52 strategic bomber. This is the latest development from the U.S. military this year to enhance and showcase its aerial maritime strike capabilities. 

With its range and payload capacity, a B-52 Stratofortress equipped with LRASM can take off with a payload of 20 missiles. This capability, combined with the strategic bomber’s immense range, could prove crucial in a potential conflict against China. 

Last Wednesday, Naval Air Systems Command released its intent to award Lockheed Martin for work to integrate LRASM with the B-52. The contract will involve associated testing, missile software updates and test asset repair. 

The Air Force has already integrated the munition of which LRASM is derived from, the AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM), across its bomber and fighter fleets. B-52 and B-1 fleets have extensively deployed the missile during the U.S.-Iran War, according to Pentagon media. 

For its maritime strike-focused derivative, the Air Force first fielded the missile from the B-1 Lancer. In June, the service revealed that the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber can launch LRASM during a sinking exercise in the Indo-Pacific. 

Capable of striking maritime targets at ranges exceeding 370 kilometers, the stealthy cruise missile is one of the most capable ship-sinking munitions in active U.S. service. The Lockheed Martin missiles were fired across at least four instances this summer at exercises around Hawaii and the Western Pacific. Washington showcased its operational capability from bombers, maritime patrol aircraft and naval fighters. Before the integration of LRASM, American air-based maritime strike missions solely relied on the Cold War-era AGM-84 Harpoon missile. 

The U.S. Navy plans to field LRASM against enemy warships in a future high-low munitions mix. According to a Tailhook 2026 presentation, the stealthy long-range cruise missile and the low-cost Blackbeard High-Speed Long Range Maritime Strike Weapon will be key components for the future carrier air wing.