The U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division in California recently tested Lockheed Martin’s new Dual Mode Plus laser guided bomb (LGB) in two successful flights, the company said.
Tests were conducted to demonstrate operation of the new linear optics, GPS/Inertial Navigation System (INS) guidance subsystem and the control actuation system. According to Lockheed Martin, all mission objectives were met.
Released from an F/A-18 Super Hornet, the two Mk-82 (500-lb.) inert warheads, fitted with ‘Dual Mode Plus’ guidance kits, impacted fixed targets well within operational performance requirements.
“Lockheed Martin’s Dual Mode Plus benefits from the reliability and affordability of the Paveway™ II Plus LGB system while integrating a GPS/INS, all-weather moving target capability,” said Joe Serra , Precision Guided Systems director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “This combination offers a precise and affordable direct attack weapon system to the U.S. and its allies.”
As the company explains, the system is effective against fixed, relocatable and moving targets, and is capable of providing precision strike capabilities in all-weather conditions at extended standoff ranges.
Lockheed Martin said the Dual Mode Plus maintained Paveway II LGB physical dimensions and could be integrated with aircraft employing Paveway II LGBs or other similar direct attack weapons utilizing conventional MIL-STD-1760/1553 or universal armament interfaces.