(Unlike current anti-ship missiles the LRASM is expected to be capable of conducting autonomous targeting, relying on on-board targeting systems to independently acquire the target without the presence of prior, precision intelligence, or supporting services like Global Positioning Satellite navigation and data-links. These capabilities will enable positive target identification, precision engagement of moving ships and establishing of initial target cueing in extremely hostile environment. The missile will be designed with counter-countermeasures to evade hostile active defense systems.
[9]
The LRASM is based on the
AGM-158B JASSM-ER, but incorporates a multi-mode
radio frequency sensor, a new weapon data-link and altimeter, and an uprated power system. It can be directed to attack enemy ships by its launch platform,
receive updates via its datalink, or use onboard sensors to find its target. LRASM will fly towards its target at medium altitude then drop to low altitude for a
sea skimming approach to counter anti-
missile defenses. DARPA states its range is "greater than 200 nautical miles (370 km; 230 mi)."
[10] Although the LRASM is based on the JASSM-ER, which has a range of 500 nmi (930 km; 580 mi),
[11] the addition of the sensor and other features will somewhat decrease that range.
[12] It is estimated that the LRASM has a range of 300 nmi (560 km; 350 mi).
[13][14]
To ensure survivability to and effectiveness against a target, the LRASM is equipped with a
BAE Systems-designed seeker and guidance system, integrating jam-resistant GPS/INS,
passive RF and threat warning receiver, an
imaging infrared (IIR
infrared homing) seeker with
automatic scene/target matching recognition, a data-link, and passive Electronic Support Measure (ESM) and
radar warning receiver sensors.
Artificial intelligence software combines these features to locate enemy ships and avoid neutral shipping in crowded areas. Automatic dissemination of emissions data is classified, located, and identified for path of attack; the data-link allows other assets to feed the missile a real-time electronic picture of the enemy battlespace. Multiple missiles can work together to share data to coordinate an attack in a swarm. Aside from short, low-power data-link transmissions, the LRASM does not emit signals, which combined with the low-
RCS JASSM airframe and low IR signature reduces detectability. Unlike previous radar-only seeker-equipped missiles that went on to hit other vessels if diverted or decoyed, the multi-mode seeker ensures the correct target is hit in a specific area of the ship. An LRASM can find its own target autonomously by using its
active radar homing to locate ships in an area, then using
passive measures once on terminal approach. Like the JASSM, the LRASM is capable of hitting land targets.)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AGM-158C_LRASM
