Raytheon reports successful PERM GTH testing
Raytheon’s Precision Extended Range Munition (PERM) has successfully completed its first two Guide to Hit (GTH) test series, confirming the round’s structural integrity and kinematic capability when fired from a smooth bore mortar tube.
Raytheon said that the testing confirmed that after launch, the canards and tail fins deploy and the round transitions to steady flight; and that the round would meet expected range and impact angle requirements. The next series of GTH tests will be conducted out of a rifled mortar tube.
Tom Bussing, vice president, advanced missile systems, Raytheon Missile Systems, said: ‘Raytheon is leveraging our extensive experience with precision artillery and munitions to meet an aggressive, 18-month development schedule. Our PERM solution's exceptional accuracy not only means long-range precision fire support; it results in less collateral damage and logistical burden for marine corps expeditionary forces.’
Raytheon is under contract to deliver mature, production-representations of the 120mm extended range, guided mortar munition for a live-fire demonstration phase by the US Marine Corps in early 2014. An ATK-General Dynamics team is also in the running for the programme.
Once fielded, PERM will be used with the M327 rifled towed mortar, the primary weapon system of the Expeditionary Fire Support System. EFSS provides all-weather, ground-based responsive close fires in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.
More from Land Warfare
-
Battlefield mobility, made in the UK
How does Britain ensure that we can preserve the lives of our soldiers and allies – now and in the future – with homegrown innovation and resilient domestic manufacturing? At Pearson Engineering, we are proud to be a central part of the answer to this increasingly important question.
-
First capability of Israel’s Iron Beam laser to be delivered by the end of December
Iron Beam is a family of high-energy laser weapon systems currently in development by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and is designed to provide a low-cost kinetic effect against aerial threats at short distances.
-
Hanwha awarded $482 million in major step for South Korea’s missile defence programme
The deal to produce and supply launchers and missiles to South Korea follows a contract placed with Hanwha Systems last month for the manufacture of multi-function radars.
-
Strengthening Baltic defence capabilities
How Latvia is bolstering its territorial defences, industrial capacity and international cooperation with Dynamit Nobel Defence’s SKORPION2 Remote Mining System.
-
Land forces review: British Army vehicle programme stalls and company results land
In the first monthly review of land forces stories, the Shephard team looks back to evaluate the major news events that have impacted the sector. The UK’s Land Mobility Programme was notable but another setback occurred when a market industry day was scrapped.