Lockheed Martin, the global aerospace and security company, has announced the successful completion of its first Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) sensor suite flight test onboard a modified Sabreliner business jet.
The LRASM sensor suite is made up of a radio-frequency sensor that is capable of detecting ships, and an electro-optical seeker that confirms correct target identification and also enables accurate targeting. To facilitate communication with battlefield managers, the suite also includes a weapon data link. The sensor suite is suitable for warfighters as it includes features that enable a survivable and stealthy subsonic cruise missile. The suite reduces dependence on GPS navigation, network links, reconnaissance, surveillance and intelligence platforms.
The LRASM captive carriage test demonstrated the superiority of the sensors in recognizing, detecting, and classifying targets. It showed the sensor suite’s compatibility with other missile electronics. During the tests, the littoral imagery was captured.
Lockheed Martin is developing the stealthy missile in collaboration with the Office of Naval Research and DARPA. In order to differentiate and identify specific targets, the missile features an improved digital anti-jam Global Positioning System that is designed for detecting and destroying particular targets among a group of ships.
Lockheed Martin intends to offer air-launched and surface-launched types of the stealthy missile. The LRASM program manager in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business, Mike Fleming, stated that the integration of the LRASM subsystem with the missile was a significant advancement. The all-up-round flight tests are scheduled to be held in early 2013.
Source: http://www.lockheedmartin.com