Ukraine successfully launched ERAM cruise missiles from F-16 fighter jets.
The US Air Force has completed testing of the Rusty Dagger missile, part of the ERAM program, on F-16 fighter jets, paving the way for the delivery of 3,350 inexpensive missiles to Ukraine.
Eglin Air Force Base has announced the completion of integrated testing and successful launch of a new cruise missile from an F-16D Block 50 fighter jet. This is a significant step in the Affordable Armaments (ERAM) program aimed at supporting Ukraine's combat capabilities.
Integrated testing on F-16 fighter jets.
Testing at Eglin Air Force Base included tests of compatibility, payload, and deployment detachable from fighter aircraft. The missile, originally named Rusty Dagger and developed by Zone 5, has now been officially designated Family of Affordable Mass Munitions-Lugged (FAMM-L).
During tests in March, the F-16D Block 50 fighter jet successfully carried and dropped this missile. The test product still bears the ERAM designation along with a serial number beginning with "RD" (short for Rusty Dagger). This weapon system is designed for widespread application at low cost, offering precision strike capabilities that can be scaled up for production.
ERAM program specifications and objectives
The ERAM program was launched to equip Ukrainian aircraft with inexpensive, mass-produced cruise missiles with high jamming resistance. Key technical requirements included:
- Weight:Based on the 227 kg bomb platform.
- Range:Minimum 400 km.
- Speed:Reach a minimum speed of Mach 0.6.
The development process for ERAM has been very rapid. From its conception in July 2024, the project took only 14 months to begin prototype production in September 2025. The goal of the U.S. Air Force is to ensure an air-launched weapon that is significantly less expensive than modern cruise missiles while maintaining its strike effectiveness.
Supply plan and projected budget
In August 2025, the US government approved the sale of 3,350 ERAM cruise missiles to Ukraine for a total value of $850 million. This deal was primarily financed by European partners. The first batch of 840 ERAM missiles is scheduled to be delivered to Ukraine in October 2026. The use of this weapon requires formal approval from the Pentagon.
Besides the Rusty Dagger, another design, the RAACM from CoAspire, was also tested in August 2025. The US military has requested $656.3 million for fiscal year 2026 to purchase 3,010 FAMM missiles, affirming its determination to expand its arsenal of inexpensive precision-guided weapons in the near future.
