TUCSON, Ariz., Nov. 27, 2006 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE:
RTN) again successfully demonstrated the enhanced navigation accuracy
capability of a new variant of HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile).
Called "HDAM" for HARM Destruction of enemy air defense Attack Module,
the new variant adds INS/GPS (inertial navigation system/global positioning
system) capability to the battle-proven HARM, greatly improving its
effectiveness while significantly reducing collateral damage and the threat
to friendly troops.
The test flight took place at the China Lake Test Range, Calif. The
missile, launched from an F-16, was fired against a simulated
surface-to-surface missile launcher.
The target was not emitting radar signals -- the normal target locater
used by the current HARM system. In this case the missile was given the
target's geographic location.
After launch the missile flew a range-enhancing profile and the fuze
successfully activated over the target well within the required parameters.
Pieces of the destroyed target were observed flying through the air, which
was significant as the missile was not carrying a warhead.
The first test on June 20 saw HDAM, also launched from an F-16,
successfully face two radar sources and select the correct one. The test
demonstrated that the added INS/GPS capability ensures that the intended
target is attacked instead of other radar sources.
"The combination of the excellent long range targeting provided by the
F-16, and HDAM's supersonic precision attack, gives the warfighter a way to
destroy critical targets at extended ranges," said Jeff Wadsworth, the HARM
program director at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, Ariz. "The target
no longer needs to identify itself by radar emission to be neutralized."
"HDAM can quickly be adapted to a new role as a high-speed strike
weapon with impressive range," Wadsworth said. "Raytheon is already
researching new technology that gives the HDAM increased effectiveness over
a wide range of target sets."
Raytheon Missile Systems has produced more than 22,800 HARMs since
1985. Customers include the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines and seven
international allies.
Raytheon Company, with 2005 sales of $21.9 billion, is an industry
leader in defense and government electronics, space, information
technology, technical services, and business and special mission aircraft.
With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 80,000 people
worldwide.
Contact:
Alan D. Fischer
520.794.1211
SOURCE Raytheon Company
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Related links:
http://www.raytheon.com/
CONTACT:
Alan D. Fischer of Raytheon Company,
+1-520-794-1211
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