RAM Block 2 completes first phase developmental testing
Raytheon has announced that its Rolling Airframe Missile Block 2 has completed the first series of developmental and operational testing (DT/OT) by the US Navy.
The tests saw the RAM Block 2 missiles successfully engage two targets in tactical dual-salvo scenarios designed to demonstrate the advanced missile’s defensive capabilities, with all four RAM Block 2 missiles meeting test objectives. The at-sea DT/OT testing was conducted from the US Navy’s Self-Defense Test Ship.
The testing is part of the work being carried out to fulfil the low-rate production contract awarded to Raytheon and its manufacturing partner, RAMSYS, in December 2012 for the production of 61 US Navy RAM Block 2 missiles. The company also received $155.6 million Block 2 production contract for the German navy earlier this year.
Rick Nelson, vice president of Raytheon Missile Systems’ Naval and Area Mission Defense product line, said: ‘RAM Block 2’s success in these developmental tests follows the completion of a series of guidance test vehicle flight tests. RAM Block 2’s increased kinematic capability and its advanced guidance system will continue to give the warfighter an unfair advantage in the fight.’
The RAM Block 2 upgrade includes a four-axis independent control actuator system and an increase in rocket motor capability, increasing the missile’s effective range and delivering a significant increase in manoeuvrability. The improved missile also incorporates an upgraded passive radio frequency seeker, a digital autopilot and engineering changes in selected infrared seeker components.
RAM is a supersonic, lightweight, quick reaction, fire-and-forget missile providing defence against anti-ship cruise missiles, helicopter and airborne threats, and hostile surface craft. The missile’s autonomous dual-mode, passive radio frequency and infrared guidance design provide a high-firepower capability for engaging multiple threats simultaneously.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Rheinmetall’s GMF 140: Ambitious frigate or market misfit?]()
Rheinmetall’s GMF 140: Ambitious frigate or market misfit?
Rheinmetall has unveiled its first next-generation frigate design, showing ambitions to compete as a surface combatant prime contractor. While the company is targeting North America, analysts believe the concept may be better positioned for future European programmes.
-
![US Navy $76.6bn award provides stability for submarine production]()
US Navy $76.6bn award provides stability for submarine production
The US Department of War’s US$76.6 billion Columbia-and Virginia-class submarine contract gives industry demand certainty as Washington seeks to rebuild its shipbuilding base.
-
![US Navy begins SPY-6(V)4 radar testing ahead of first Arleigh Burke destroyer backfit]()
US Navy begins SPY-6(V)4 radar testing ahead of first Arleigh Burke destroyer backfit
Wallops Island trials will validate the next-generation radar's combat system integration before its installation aboard USS Pinckney, the first Flight IIA destroyer to receive the SPY-6(V)4 upgrade.
-
![Hanwha Ocean deepens US ties and eyes Saudi submarine prospect after Canada setback]()
Hanwha Ocean deepens US ties and eyes Saudi submarine prospect after Canada setback
Hanwha Ocean is deepening ties with the US and eyeing a submarine opportunity in Saudi Arabia, as South Korea looks to convert its Canadian defeat into export momentum.
-
![A400M trial demonstrates airborne deployment of uncrewed surface vessel]()
A400M trial demonstrates airborne deployment of uncrewed surface vessel
Kraken Technology Group’s A400M airdrop of a K3 Scout uncrewed surface vessel points to a new way for navies to insert USVs into contested waters, bypassing ports and motherships.
