Marine JAGM reaches IOC for use on Viper helo

The Marine Corps declared initial operational capability for the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile on the AH-1Z Viper helicopter on March 1, according to a statement issued by the service today.

JAGM reached IOC after the program “successfully conducted a robust initial operational test and evaluation period, and received delivery of missiles, training, and pertinent equipment,” the press release states.

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 will be one of the first Marine squadrons to field the JAGM on its upcoming deployment, according to the press release.

“The addition of the JAGM into the Marine Corps’ arsenal increases the ability to mass fires in all weather conditions and expands Marine Corps aviation versatility as an integral part of the Fleet Marine Forces,” the press release states.

The program was previously delayed due to difficulty integrating software that connects the missile with the AH-1Z pilot’s controls.

A JAGM full-rate production decision is scheduled for the third quarter of fiscal year 2022.