StormBreaker smart weapon to be fitted on F-35B Lightning II
An F-35B releases the StormBreaker smart weapon. (Photo: Raytheon Missiles & Defense)
Raytheon Missiles & Defense together with the USN conducted the first-ever weapon drop of a StormBreaker precision-guided glide bomb from a USMC F-35B Lightning II.
During the test, an F-35B pilot used the network-enabled weapon as a guided munition, following the same method one would use in combat, from mission planning to release.
After the F-35B released the weapon, a nearby F/A-18F Super Hornet monitored the fly-out of the weapon over a common network. The Super Hornet continued monitoring of the weapon until successful impact, showing successful network connectivity capability.
“The weapon’s operational flexibility increases the F-35’s capability and capacity, and it helps limit the time our warfighters spend in harm’s way,” said Alison Howlett, StormBreaker programme director at Raytheon Missiles & Defense.
StormBreaker will continue developmental and operational testing with the F-35B, while the USN will declare IOC for the missile on the Super Hornet after operational testing concludes.
More from Air Warfare
-
C-27J Spartan contract to strengthen Italy and Azerbaijan relations
Italy and Azerbaijan have signed a contract for the supply of the C-27J Spartan transport aircraft
-
New $156 million deal to advance UK aircrew training
The initiative under the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) will equip Royal Navy observers and Royal Air Force weapon system officers with the skills to operate advanced aircraft.
-
Argentina boosts Antarctic airlift with lease of C-130
Argentina has opted to lease a seventh C-130 transport aircraft under the US Foreign Military Sales mechanism.
-
Lockheed Martin selects GE engines for LMXT USAF tanker offering
Lockheed Martin has announced the selection of GE Aerospace's CF6-80E1 turbofan for the LMXT strategic tanker. The LMXT is Lockheed Martin's solution for the USAF's …
-
Lockheed hopeful of Armed Black Hawk deal for Polish Army amid increased defence spending
The Polish government is significantly increasing its defence budget and looks to grow its armed forces in an efforts to counter Russia's perceived threat. Under these plans, there is place for Armed Black Hawk attack helicopters next to the AW149s and Apaches.
-
Malaysian Army leases Black Hawk helicopters
Malaysia is leasing a quartet of Black Hawks, giving the army its first taste of operating the American-built helicopter.