U.S. Army receives first Javelin lightweight command launch units

TUCSON, Ariz., May 26, 2026 — The Javelin Joint Venture, a partnership between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, has delivered the first Lightweight Command Launch Units to the U.S. Army, beginning the replacement of the weapon system’s legacy command launch unit. The next-generation launcher is designed to be adaptable and compatible with all current, past, and future Javelin variants.

Raytheon has invested $22 million to modernize the LWCLU factory to increase speed of production and expand capacity. Working with the U.S. Army, the company is ramping annual production at its facility in Tucson.

The LWCLU is billed as providing twice the target detection and recognition range while cutting size by 30% and weight by 25%. It also maximizes surveillance for soldiers and offers day and night engagement capability.

“Delivering the first LWCLUs to the U.S. Army reflects the Javelin Joint Venture’s commitment to continuously advancing technology for service members,” said Jenna Hunt Frazier, JJV president and Javelin program director at Raytheon. “Our investments in modernization and production capacity ensures soldiers receive this cutting-edge capability faster.”

“The production and delivery of the LWCLU marks a pivotal step in modernizing the Javelin system for today’s warfighter,” said Rich Liccion, JJV vice president and Lockheed Martin Javelin program director. “Its innovative design enhances mobility and survivability while preserving the precision firepower that users rely on.”

Javelin is developed and produced by the Javelin Joint Venture between Raytheon in Tucson, Arizona, and Lockheed Martin in Orlando, Florida.