The AGM-161 is a long-range GPS-guided cruise missile available to the F/A-26B and the F-45A. Its cousin, the AGM-89 Anti-ship Cruise Missile, cannot be reliably deployed against ground targets, and this cruise missile fills that role. The AGM-161 is GPS-guided and is capable of following GPS paths to its targets. This makes the missile very accurate, though—like with GBU-38s—they are unable to be deployed against moving targets as a result. Unlike the AGM-89, the 161 has no alternative terminal mode options; it will always follow the same trajectory and will invert before impact. The AGM-161 should be launched from a medium-high altitude to ensure that it is able to reach its target. If launched too far away from its target, it will start losing energy and become vulnerable to interception by hostile CIWS or Surface-to-Air Missiles.
AGM-161s are very helpful for dealing with fixed targets from long ranges. They can be helpful as an asset in SEAD tactics due to their sheer range and accuracy. If a crucial Fire Control Radar can be identified and targeted from afar (the F-45A's TSD system excels in these tasks), it can be targeted and engaged with a 161 from a safe distance, allowing the deploying aircraft to focus on planning out further engagements against other targets before moving in.
