Lockheed's DAGR tested on Apache helicopter

ORLANDO, Fla., March 20 (UPI) -- DAGR, a new air-launched missile from Lockheed Martin was 16 for 16 during a series of Air Worthiness Release live fire tests, the company reports.

In each of the 16 flight tests, a DAGR missile fired from an H-64D attack helicopter locked onto the laser spot illuminating a target before launch, flew between 1-3 miles and struck the target within about 3 feet of the laser spot.

"These flight tests confirm DAGR's ability to safely launch and separate from a moving, diving platform without degrading aircraft or weapon performance," said Kevin Fitzpatrick, close combat systems development program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "These tests also validate DAGR production readiness at our Ocala (Fla.) operations facility."

DAGR uses Hellfire II missile technology with a laser guidance system which integrates seamlessly with legacy Hydra-70 rockets. Multiple DAGRs can be fired in rapid succession at different targets using different laser codes from multiple designators.

Lockheed said DAGR is for use against non-armored or lightly-armored targets and minimizes collateral damage.

Prior to AWR testing, Lockheed Martin completed DAGR System Qualification testing, validating the missile and rail-mounted canister for use in aircraft captive carry, storage and transportation operations.

Lockheed said it has conducted more than 40 DAGR guided flights, launching the weapon from multiple Hellfire-equipped rotary-wing platforms, including the AH-64D Apache, AH-6 Little Bird and OH-58 Kiowa Warrior.

It has also launched the missile from the ground-based Hellfire/DAGR pedestal launcher.