New Raytheon Missile Variant Aces Flight Test

Raytheon Co. [RTN] successfully demonstrated the improved navigation accuracy of a new variant of the High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM)

Called HDAM, for HARM destruction of enemy air defense attack module, the new variant adds INS/GPS (inertial navigation system/global positioning system) capability to the battle-proven HARM.

That addition greatly improves its effectiveness while significantly reducing collateral damage and the threat to friendly troops.

The test flight, at the China Lake Test Range, Calif., unfolded this way:

That missile, launched from an F-16, faced two radar sources and had to select the correct one. The test demonstrated that the added INS/GPS capability ensures that the intended target is attacked instead of other radar sources.

After launch, the first target radar, located outside the HDAM’s programmed missile impact zone (MIZ), was turned on first, and the missile rejected this target as being outside the area where attacks were allowed.

The HDAM continued searching and locked onto the second radar located in the MIZ as soon as it was turned on. After determining the new source was within the MIZ, the HDAM engaged the correct target.

“This shot shows how the HDAM system will bring warfighters a new level of multi-mission effectiveness to HARM-equipped aircraft,” said Jeff Wadsworth, HARM program director at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson.

Raytheon Missile Systems has produced more than 22,500 HARMs since 1985. Customers include the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines and seven international allies.