Aero India 2017: Textron reports G-Claw testing
Textron Systems Weapon and Sensor Systems' G-Claw precision guided glide weapon has undergone successful testing at Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona, the company announced on 14 February.
The testing was carried out against static and moving targets from a Cessna Caravan aircraft, with engagement reported as within one metre circular error probable. The weapon transferred navigation from a GPS-aided inertial navigation system to the semi-active laser sensor for terminal guidance, with Textron reporting that the results verified end-to-end guidance through successful engagement of an off-axis target greater than two kilometers downrange from the aircraft.
G-Claw incorporates tri-mode fuzing - height of burst, impact and delay - to maximise effects against a broad target set. The weapon has been designed with modularity to support rapid incorporation of emerging technologies in guidance, seekers and warhead effects, and to allow it to be adapted to changing mission requirements at minimum development cost.
In addition to the Caravan, the weapon can be integrated onto aircraft including the Textron AirLand Scorpion jet, and launch systems such as the Common Launch Tube, using a roll-on/roll-off battle management system.
Brian Sinkiewicz, senior vice president and general manager, Weapon and Sensor Systems, said: 'We are pleased with the test results and development progress of the G-Claw precision guided weapon system.'
More from Defence Notes
-
Saudi Arabia eyes large procurement spend as it boosts 2025 defence budget to $78 billion
The new figure is an increase from US$75.8 billion in 2024 and showcases the country’s focus on its Saudi Vision 2030 to achieve a diversified and sustainable economy, reducing the Kingdom’s dependency on oil.
-
Broad demand for land and technology equipment boosts defence companies’ financial results
Financial reporting season for the calendar year of 2024 has continued to show substantial growth for defence companies as countries across the world, particularly those in Europe, open the chequebook.
-
EU commits to increased defence spending and boosting capability
There has been increased pressure from the second-term Trump administration in the US, as there was in the first term, for increased defence spending from non-US NATO countries, a move which is noted by Europe as already occurring.
-
Can the Trump administration overcome the Pentagon's multiple capability integration issues?
Better integration of systems and sensors across the branches will be critical to ensuring deterrence and readiness.
-
Trump enters the White House promising into bring the US military to a “golden age”
The returning US president also reiterated a commitment to supply the services with “made-in-America” capabilities and to end conflicts worldwide.
-
Incoming Irish government backs plans for larger defence force
It has been more than six weeks since the Irish general election. After long negotiations, a coalition of two of the three largest parties and independents has resulted in a Programme for Government (PfG) which will form the basis of a government almost guaranteed to be formed on 22 January.