PATUXENT, Md., Aug. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. companies Raytheon and Boeing report completion of a series of technology development phase tests of the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile's single rocket-motor.
The motor was designed by Boeing and its subcontractor ATK.
The Raytheon-Boeing JAGM features a fully integrated tri-mode seeker that incorporates semi-active laser, un-cooled imaging infrared and millimeter wave guidance.
The system leverages proven components from other Raytheon and Boeing programs, including the Raytheon Small Diameter Bomb II and previously fielded Boeing launchers and missiles.
"These tests were the most challenging ones to date and prove the engineering and manufacturing development-ready Raytheon-Boeing JAGM motor can withstand the rigors of fixed- and rotary-wing flight," said Carl Avila, director, Boeing Advanced Weapons and Missile Systems. "Our single rocket-motor solution for all JAGM applications provides compelling logistics and life-cycle cost advantages to the Army, Navy and Marines."
During the tests, engineers cold-cycled two rocket motors from minus 50 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit -- 15 and 20 times, respectively. Engineers also subjected the motors to vibrations and loads equivalent to 300 captive carry flight hours and then static-fired the engines.
The tests on both rocket motors achieved their objectives and proved the maturity of the motors at the component level.
"The Raytheon-Boeing JAGM has an unparalleled 6-for-6 track record during test firing, including three direct hits during government-funded testing," said Bob Francois, vice president of Advanced Missiles and Unmanned Systems for Raytheon Missile Systems. "During one live full-up missile firing and six subsequent component tests, we demonstrated that our single rocket-motor solution works as advertised."
JAGM, designed to replace three legacy systems, offers the warfighter improved lethality, range, operational flexibility, supportability and cost savings compared with older, Cold War-era weapons, such as all variants of the Hellfire missile.
