New Long Range Standoff Missile Unveiled
An aviation enthusiast has recently captured the initial unofficial images of the U.S. Air Force’s latest Long Range Standoff nuclear cruise missile, known as the AGM-181.
Aviation photographer Ryan Watamura spotted the new missile, referred to as the LRSO, mounted under the wing of a B-52 bomber during a low-level flight over California last week.
The Pentagon has characterized the LRSO as a long-range, survivable standoff cruise missile designed to deliver lethal nuclear effects on strategic targets.
This new missile is set to replace the existing Air Launched Cruise Missile and will be compatible with both B-52s and the upcoming B-21 bomber.
The Air Force intends to procure 1,087 LRSO missiles and has allocated $1.1 billion for this initiative in its fiscal 2026 budget.
The Energy Department’s National Nuclear Security Administration is currently overseeing a life extension program for the W-88 nuclear warhead that will be used with the LRSO.
The Pentagon stated that “the LRSO weapon system will be capable of penetrating and surviving advanced integrated air defense systems from significant standoff ranges to engage strategic targets in support of global attack capabilities and strategic deterrence.”
Prior to this sighting, the Air Force had only shared an artist’s rendering of the new missile back in June.
Air Force Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach, chief of staff, confirmed that the missile remains within projected cost, schedule, and performance parameters.
