What Is the ERAM Program? The Low-Cost US Cruise Missile Developed for Ukraine Explained

The U.S. Air Force launched the Extended Range Attack Munition program in 2024 to develop a low-cost air-launched cruise missile for Ukraine in the 500-pound class, with a range of at least 250 nautical miles. Zone 5 Technologies developed the AGM-188A Rusty Dagger, and CoAspire developed the Rapidly Adaptable Affordable Cruise Missile. The State Department approved a possible sale of up to 3,350 ERAMs to Ukraine in August 2025, valued at an estimated $825 million. After a January 2026 live-warhead test at Eglin Air Force Base, the Air Force sought industry input in November on supplying more than 1,000 additional weapons.