The Laser Guided Rocket (LGR) passed a wind tunnel test, Raytheon Co. [RTN] reported.

That tunnel operation produced both high fidelity flight simulations and data for developing the aerodynamic model for autopilot design.

The LGR program is part of a cooperative development agreement with Emirates Advanced Investments of the United Arab Emirates.

The program will develop a semi-active laser guided 70 mm (2.75 inch) rocket designed to provide increased precision and lethality, compared with conventional, unguided rockets.

The four-day wind tunnel test included 542 runs in the Calspan Transonic Wind Tunnel in Buffalo, N.Y.

This test was the first of many upcoming design verification events in the 24-month development and qualification program.

“This program is a potential model for Raytheon’s global business template,” said Richard Janik, Raytheon Missile Systems’ LGR program director. “It has important financial, engineering and manufacturing ramifications for our international business efforts, our UAE partner and our customers.”

The Raytheon-EAI cooperative development agreement includes a follow-on production proposal to manufacture LGR in both the U.S. and UAE.

Emirates Advanced Investments, in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, was incorporated in 2005 to develop advanced technologies and services through strategic global partnerships with manufacturing and service organizations.