Japan has received its initial delivery of Joint Strike Missiles (JSM) for integration with its F-35A Lightning II aircraft, strengthening its ability to conduct long-range precision strikes.
The missiles, developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, were handed over in Norway and transported to Japan using a Japan Air Self-Defense Force aircraft. Although the quantity remains undisclosed, the delivery follows a series of contracts signed since 2019, including an additional order placed in late 2025.
In addition to Japan, the JSM has been selected by several nations, including Norway, Australia, Germany, and the United States, underscoring its growing global adoption.
Derived from the Naval Strike Missile, the JSM was purpose-built for the F-35A and F-35C platforms, fitting within the aircraft’s internal weapons bay for stealth operations. It can engage targets at ranges of up to 563 kilometers and operates at high subsonic speeds.
The missile is approximately 4 meters long, weighs about 407 kilograms, and carries a 118-kilogram warhead. It employs GPS and inertial navigation during flight, combined with a jam-resistant imaging infrared seeker for precise terminal engagement.
Optimized for anti-surface warfare, naval strike support, and long-range attack roles, the JSM enhances the operational reach and versatility of F-35 platforms.
