Poland to receive over 800 advanced JASSM-ER missiles from the US
In addition to 96 AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters, Washington is ready to offer Poland over 800 advanced JASSM-ER cruise missiles. This is a weapon with a very long range, capable of hitting targets within Russia. What do we know about it?
The visit of the Polish president and Prime Minister to the United States is filled with vital events for Polish defence. These include American decisions regarding the sale of attack helicopters to Poland and Washington's identification of funding sources for Polish purchases.
The Americans agreed to sell the JASSM–ER air–to–ground missiles as part of a weapons package that includes the AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II and AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles.
JASSM-ER for Poland
The JASSM-ER missile was developed from the older version of the JASSM air-to-ground missile, sharing over 70% of its parts. The key upgrade from the original is an extensively increased range, now between approximately 900 to 1,000 kilometres.
Poland began efforts to purchase these missiles in 2018 and became the second user of this weapon globally. We have about 70 of these types of missiles in our arsenal.
The new batch of JASSM-ER missiles that could be sold to Poland amounts to over 800 units. Polish F-16s and, in the future, F-35 aircraft can carry this weapon.
The JASSM-ER is 4.3 metres long and weighs about 1,202 kilograms. By allocating additional space within the fuselage for fuel, the missile boasts a large range – it can deliver a warhead weighing 450 kilograms over a distance of 900 to 1,000 kilometres. Its stealth capabilities make it difficult to detect and destroy.
Which JASSM variant for Poland?
It is worth noting that the statements published instantly after the announcement concerning the missiles for Poland caused some confusion with terminology. While official sources talk about the consent to sell JASSM-ER missiles to Poland, they also mention the designation AGM-158B-2.
This designation, however, pertains to another variant of the JASSM (JASSM XR), which boasts an increased range of up to about 1,900 kilometres at the cost of a smaller warhead. In 2023, Poland also expressed interest in purchasing this version of the missiles.
