Raytheon demonstrates Griffin C in-flight retargeting

Flight tests of the Griffin C missile have demonstrated its In-Flight Target Update (IFTU) capability when redirected to a new target in mid-flight. Raytheon made the announcement on 28 October following flight tests conducted at Yuma Proving Ground.

Formally known as SeaGriffin, Griffen C successfully completed all three test firings during the testing, which was conducted by Raytheon to demonstrate the missile’s readiness as the Surface Warfare solution for the US Navy’s Littoral Combat Ships Surface-to-Surface Missile Module.

IFTU is a vital capability for Griffin C, giving naval forces the ability to face swarming boat threats that often intermingle with friendly and neutral shipping.

Thomas R. Bussing, vice president of Advanced Missile Systems, Raytheon Missile Systems, said: ‘With its extended range motor, Griffin C’s increased capability addresses the need for a longer range missile with in-flight retargeting.

‘Because they often operate in a high-traffic, littoral waters, naval warfighters must make split-second decisions to engage or disengage targets. By enhancing an already tested and fielded system, we can deliver a missile with significantly improved capabilities at lower costs and risk.’

Griffin C will add increased capability to the Griffin B Block II variant that is currently fielded on US Navy Patrol Coastal vessels, including an extended range motor that will triple the range of the current Griffin B; dual-mode IIR/SAL seeker; data link for in-flight target updates and positive missile control; vertical launch with 360 degree coverage; thrust vector control; and waypoint navigation.

Raytheon has now completed Griffin C’s development phase linking the new dual-mode seeker, data link and IFTU.