- Lockheed Martin introduced the CMMT, a low-cost cruise missile designed to be easily reproducible and affordable, especially for large-scale conflicts. It was developed alongside the Rapid Dragon program, which involves launching palletized cruise missiles from cargo planes.
- The CMMT is simpler than other advanced missiles like JASSM or LRASM, featuring a basic engine, basic warhead, and additive manufacturing to reduce production costs.
- The CMMT, combined with the Rapid Dragon delivery system, offers a cost-effective and versatile solution for the U.S. military, enhancing its capabilities in future conflicts.
Full Story
For this week’s weapon of the week, the crew visited with Lockheed Martin to discuss the company’s new low-cost cruise missile called the CMMT, or the Comet. Lockheed’s vice president of strategy and requirements, air weapons and sensors, Mike Rothstein, met with the team to discuss this innovative missile.
What is the CMMT?
The CMMT was introduced around the same time as Rapid Dragon, a program involving palletized cruise missiles launched from the back of a cargo plane.
The following is an excerpt of Weapons and Warfare Host Ryan Robertson’s conversation with Rothstein. It has been edited for length and clarity.
Ryan Robertson: How did CMMT come about, with Rapid Dragon around that same time?
Mike Rothstein: Yeah, that’s a great question. We understand that the U.S. Air Force and the Department of Defense need not only the exquisite weapons we are known for but also more affordable options. These need to be easier to develop and produce, especially for large-scale conflicts. The combination of CMMT, designed to be lower cost and easily producible, with Rapid Dragon’s delivery system from cargo aircraft, creates a powerful deterrent.
Robertson: How was Lockheed Martin able to produce something at a lower price point?
Rothstein: Well, you know, keep in mind they’re different missiles. CMMT isn’t designed to do everything that a JASSM or a LRASM does. It doesn’t have the same exquisite sensors, large warhead, or advanced survivability techniques. We’ve made it very simple, using a basic engine, basic warhead, and additive manufacturing to reduce production costs. We’re focusing on manufacturing efficiency to create a weapon that is good enough for many operational needs.
Robertson: What kind of target sets are we imaging for the CMMT?
Rothstein: I think it will be a range of target sets. In tomorrow’s war, targets won’t stay still. Our baseline capability is to hit moving or movable targets. It may be sea-based or land-based. While it won’t have a huge warhead for the biggest, hardest targets, it will be able to hit a variety of targets effectively.
Conclusion
The CMMT represents a significant advancement in cruise missile technology, offering a cost-effective solution for the U.S. military. Its simplicity and ease of production make it a valuable addition to the arsenal, especially when combined with the Rapid Dragon delivery system. As the U.S. continues to innovate in defense technology, the CMMT stands out as a versatile and affordable option for future conflicts.
Access the full Weapons and Warfare episode here.
Access all Weapons and Warfare podcast episodes here.
