Persistence pays off with ARRW hypersonic test
An AGM-183A missile is secured aboard a USAF B-52H Stratofortress before a captive carry test in August 2020. (Photo: USAF/Giancarlo Casem)
The ARRW air-launched hypersonic missile test programme has had its share of delays and mishaps, but Lockheed Martin and the USAF have finally conducted a successful boosted flight test.
Lockheed Martin announced on 17 May that it has successfully conducted a boosted flight test with the USAF of the AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) hypersonic missile.
The successful flight with a B-52H Stratofortress ‘demonstrates the weapon’s ability to reach and withstand operational hypersonic speeds, collect crucial data for use in further flight tests, and validate safe separation from the aircraft to deliver the glide body and warhead to designated targets from significant standoff distances’, Lockheed Martin stated.
‘The need for hypersonic strike capabilities is critical to our nation and this successful test will help us to maintain an accelerated and rigorous timeline,’ said Dave Berganini, VP of hypersonic and strike systems at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.
Development of the AGM-183A began in 2018 but progress has been patchy with failed booster tests in 2021, for example in July when the motor did not ignite.
The General Accountability Office has criticised the programme for delays and spiralling costs, noting in March 2021 that ARRW might only achieve a ‘residual operational capability’ in late FY2022.
In its FY2023 budget proposal, the USAF stated that it intends to spend $46.6 million on a single ARRW.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Hybrid Air Vehicles secures first defence order for Airlander 10]()
Hybrid Air Vehicles secures first defence order for Airlander 10
The undisclosed customer, described as an “innovative defence contractor”, has reserved three Airlander 10 aircraft for military use.
-
![Lockheed Martin emphasises self-funding efforts for “big bet” next-gen prototypes]()
Lockheed Martin emphasises self-funding efforts for “big bet” next-gen prototypes
A significant effort is now being made to focus on showcasing prototypes directly to demonstrate various capabilities to the US government.
-
![Shield AI unveils new autonomous VTOL fighter jet concept]()
Shield AI unveils new autonomous VTOL fighter jet concept
Named X-Bat, the AI-controlled vertical take-off and landing drone is expected to enter production by 2029, with first flight tests estimated to take place a year earlier.
-
![How satcom is shaping the future of fast, accurate warfare (podcast)]()
How satcom is shaping the future of fast, accurate warfare (podcast)
"Speed is the key advantage and accuracy is the key outcome": Amazon Kuiper Government Solutions’ Rick Freeman talks to Shephard’s Georgia Lewis about how space-as-a-service is transforming defence connectivity and access to satellite capabilities.
