Lockheed Unveils Low-Cost $150,000 Cruise Missile.
Lockheed Martin is set to introduce a new cruise missile priced at approximately $150,000, boasting a range of over 500 miles, as part of a strategy to enhance U.S. deterrence against Chinese ambitions in the Pacific. This missile, known as the Common Multi-Mission Truck (CMMT), is designed to provide a cost-effective solution for military operations, emphasizing the trend toward "affordable mass" in armaments following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The CMMT's modular design allows for various adaptations to meet different mission requirements, highlighting Lockheed's focus on flexibility and operational readiness.
- This development reflects a broader shift in military strategy towards utilizing a mix of affordable, high-volume weaponry to ensure a robust defense posture without the financial burden of traditional high-cost systems.
- How will the introduction of such low-cost weapons influence global military dynamics and arms race strategies in regions like the Indo-Pacific?