Lockheed Martin’s Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) proved in a recently conducted test that it can be launched from any MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) by only modifying the software to existing shipboard equipment. Namely, during the test, LRASM and Tactical Tomahawk Weapons Control System (TTWCS), MK 41 VLS and Mk-114 booster hardware with modified software executed simulated missions and provided all electrical interfaces and data transfers needed to prepare and launch LRASMs.
Two more surface-launch demonstration tests will be held later this year, when a LRASM will be vertically launched from the Desert Ship at White Sands Missile Range, transitioning to controlled flight and target area impact.
According to Glenn Kuller, vice president of advanced and special programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, the recent test demonstrated the low-risk and low-cost of launching LRASM from a ship.
“This program success helps pave the way for rapid fielding of a surface launch capability, meeting our warfighters’ critical needs,” he said.
LRASM is an autonomous, precision-guided anti-ship standoff missile leveraging the successful Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile Extended Range heritage, and is designed to meet the Offensive Anti-Surface Weapon needs of U.S. Navy and Air Force warfighters.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, January 16, 2014; Image:Lockheed Martin