Lockheed Martin's DAGR system successful in Apache helicopter testing
Lockheed Martin has successfully fired the DAGR rocket system from an AH-64D Apache helicopter. The testing marked the first airborne platform tests for DAGR, demonstrating its ability to engage targets in both day and night conditions. The testing was conducted at the US Army's Yuma Proving Ground, AZ, by a combined team of Lockheed Martin, Boeing and US Army Aviation Technical Test Center personnel.
During testing, three rockets were fired from the Apache helicopter; two successfully impacted the targets within minimal distance of the designated aimpoint. DAGR is now 10-for-11 in guided test flights and 14-for-15 overall.
'Every missile in development comes down to the acid test of firing from a platform and striking the target,' said Jerry Brode, DAGR program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (MFC). 'These Apache integration tests, coupled with the live warhead test we conducted at Eglin Air Force Base a few months ago, show how far DAGR has come.'
In 10 successful guided flight tests, the DAGR system has repeatedly demonstrated its precision strike and manouevre capabilities, hitting short- and long-range off-axis targets within minimal distance of the laser-designated aimpoint.
Designed for compatibility with the M299 launcher family, the DAGR system offers potential integration on all rotary-wing?Hellfire platforms, including the Apache, Little Bird, Cobra, Sea Hawk, Kiowa and Tiger. A mixed loadout of?Hellfire II missiles and DAGR rockets can be mounted on the same launcher, providing operational flexibility and cost-effective multi-mission capabilities from a single platform.
More from Defence Helicopter
-
![Royal Navy helicopter crews transfer control of UAS in European first]()
Royal Navy helicopter crews transfer control of UAS in European first
Using technology supplied by QinetiQ, two Royal Navy helicopter crews successfully exchanged control of a UAS while in flight.
-
![Leonardo wins Canadian helicopter upgrade programme]()
Leonardo wins Canadian helicopter upgrade programme
The upgrade contract will ensure that the Candian helicopters are compliant with future technological requirements.
-
![Guatemala receives Bell Subaru helicopters]()
Guatemala receives Bell Subaru helicopters
The latest version of the Bell 412 helicopter has improved performance and weight capacity and will support Guatemala in various missions.
-
![Algeria expresses interest in AW249 while AW139 deal remains in limbo]()
Algeria expresses interest in AW249 while AW139 deal remains in limbo
Leonardo and Algeria hope to seal the AW139 deal in 2023 while Italy and the North African country further strengthen defence ties.
-
![Nigeria to receive new attack helicopters]()
Nigeria to receive new attack helicopters
The Nigerian Air Force is to receive more than 50 attack air assets to strengthen its ability to fight insecurity within its borders.
-
![Royal Navy upgrades Merlin helicopters]()
Royal Navy upgrades Merlin helicopters
The Royal Navy's amphibious helicopters have received an improved defensive aid suit and Merlin pilots can now train in a synthetic training environment.
