The US Air Force (USAF) has successfully completed the initial operational test and evaluation (IOT&E) programme of the Lockheed Martin-built joint air-to-surface standoff missile (JASSM-ER) extended range at an undisclosed location.
Comprising 21 test flights, the IOT&E programme was aimed at evaluating full operational capability for the B-1B/JASSM-ER weapon system against a broad spectrum of operationally representative targets at the full range of release conditions.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control long-range strike systems programme manager Dave Melvin said the test flight highlights the operational effectiveness, suitability and mission capability of the JASSM-ER system.
”The successful completion of the testing program was the final milestone before a planned full-rate production decision, expected later in 2013,” Melvin added.
The IOT&E testing follows several JASSM programme milestones, including completion of Lot 6 baseline missile reliability assessment testing in February, receipt of the letter of offer and acceptance from Finland for JASSM integration onto its F/A-18 C/D Hornet, as well as Lot 10 contract award from USAF, and installation on its F-15E Eagle fleet.
A long-range version of the baseline JASSM missile, the JASSM-ER features a new engine and greater fuel load capability, and is also able to function in heavily degraded GPS environments.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataEquipped with an infrared seeker and a GPS receiver to aim specific targets, the JASSM is a 2,000lb autonomous, long-range, air-to-ground, precision standoff missile, designed to destroy high-value, well-defended, fixed and re-locatable targets in the battlefield.
Currently installed aboard the USAF’s F-15E, B-1, B-2, B-52, F-16 aircraft, the missile is also certified for use on the Royal Australian Air Force’s F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter fleet.
More than 1,200 JASSMs have been manufactured by Lockheed to date, at its manufacturing facility in Alabama, US, for testing and operational use with a total objective of 4,900 missiles.
Image: A USAF B-1 Lancer launches a JASSM-ER missile during operational testing at Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, US. Photo: Courtesy of the US Air Force.
