Lockheed munition dropped from Shadow

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ORLANDO, Fla., May 2 (UPI) -- The Shadow 200 unmanned aerial system -- long used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance -- was recently tested as a weapons platform.

Lockheed Martin reports it conducted the first launch of its Shadow Hawk precision-guided weapon from a Shadow 200 recently and achieved a direct hit on the target.

"As the mission of the Shadow UAS continues to evolve, it will need capability that can immediately neutralize threats detected and designated by the Shadow's sensor package, with minimum impact to the aircraft's endurance," said Glenn Kuller, director of advanced programs in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business.

"With precision strike accuracy, the Shadow Hawk is an ideal solution in urban environments where low collateral damage is essential."

Shadow Hawk is an 11-pound drop glide weapon. It is 2.75 inches in diameter and 27 inches long. It features a semi-active laser seeker and an off-axis capability so it can be dropped from the vehicle's wings.

In the test, the Shadow Hawk munition was dropped from 5,100 feet and hit the target at a speed of 460 feet per second.

Lockheed said weapon sensors enabled the weapon to strike just 8 inches off the laser spot center.

A ground location laser designator was used in the initial test.