Even during a pandemic, threats to a Warfighter never stop – and neither did Javelin production.
To produce the Javelin anti-tank guided missile, various teams located around the U.S. collaborate to ensure the Warfighter’s arsenal stays full. After gathering material from 63 suppliers across 18 states, the missile rolls off the production line in Alabama. This is also where Wenona Sublett, production facility leader, oversees the team that helps finalize the F-Model’s production.
Developed and produced by the Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin Joint Venture, Javelin is used as the mainstay Brigade Combat Team weapon by the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. The Javelin Joint Venture produced the first lot of F-Model missiles this past March.
“Each of the technicians on the Javelin team know that what we do is essential in protecting our warfighters even in this time of uncertainty,” Sublett said. “We continue to support them, so they can support us.”
Since the pandemic, the team has taken extra safety precautions during productions, such as distancing work stations, providing personal locker space and implementing new cleaning practices.
“Not only do I want to serve my nation, but I want to serve my family by protecting myself so I can safely come home to them and be their mother, wife, and loved one that they count on,” she said. “In light of the changes my Javelin team has embraced this challenge. Each day they show up and together we conquer our tasks.”
Javelin offers more than 20 years of proven performance, which includes combat operations in multiple theaters with more than 5,000 firings. It is currently in-service in 18 allied countries.
“As a production facility leader, my team performs mission-essential, hands-on work daily. Our mission is to create a product our customer can rely on working when they need it the most,” Sublett said. “It is satisfying to me personally to be able to come to work in light of the uncertainty. The work provides a steady foundation for me to help me stay grounded.”
With orders for more than 50,000 Javelins, the weapon system is expected to be in the U.S. military’s operational inventory through 2050. As such, Javelin is subject to continual upgrades to retain overmatch against emerging threats and to support evolving operational needs.
“As I listen to the news and hear of so many unemployed and unnormal circumstances,” she said, “I am proud for myself and my teammates that we have a not only a job, but a career that allows us to help protect our nation that we can serve by our efforts.”