One of the messages that Raytheon has brought to Singapore is that the evolving technological capabilities of both air-to-air missiles and fighter radar must proceed hand-in-hand if an operator is to take full advantage of new performance gains. As radar-guided weapons increase in effective range capability, so better radars are required with sufficient performance to match that of the weapon. Looked at from the other side, as the fighter world turns increasingly to active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, so longer-range weapons are needed to harness the new capabilities of the sensors.
With its long pedigree in both missile and radar technology, Raytheon (Booth V01) is a leader in developing new systems that push both weapon and sensor capability forward. Aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at the F-16 upgrade market, the company is promoting its RACR AESA radar. This sensor has been selected by Korea as part of a BAE Systems-led upgrade contract, for which Raytheon is also providing the mission computers and a HARM anti-radar missile upgrade. The latter adds GPS and improved inertial navigation under the HARM control section modification (HCSM) program.
To partner RACR and other current radars, Raytheon continues to improve the AIM-120 AMRAAM active-radar air-to-air missile, which is in Singaporean service. The current AIM-120C7 version offers significantly improved range and no-escape zone performance compared to earlier models. Last April Singapore requested the C7 version for its air force to augment earlier models.
At the same time, Singapore also requested Raytheon’s shorter-range AIM-9X Block II missile to supplant the Block I weapon. The key improvement of the Block II is the introduction of a two-way datalink that allows lock-on after launch capability. According to Raytheon, this will “redefine the battlespace.” AESA radar capability is an important element in unlocking the potential of these new weapons.
Away from the air-to-air arena Raytheon is also highlighting the AGM-65E2 laser-guided Maverick, which has become an important weapon in recent U.S. operations. Offering pinpoint accuracy against difficult targets, the weapon has been used in combat against targets moving at over 70 mph.
The company is also working on gaining export release for its 33-pound AGM-176 Griffin smart munition, of which over 2,000 have now been delivered to U.S. forces. The weapon has been deployed from various platforms, and is slated for use with the U.S. Air Force’s new AC-130J Ghostrider gunship, the first converted example of which flew on January 31.
South Korea Boosts Maverick Stocks
The Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration this week placed a $31 million order with Raytheon for additional AGM-65G-2 Maverick missiles. Under the direct commercial sales, Raytheon will supply the missiles to the Republic of Korea Air Force.
