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F-16 successfully flight tests block VI HARM
August 21, 2006 (by
Lieven Dewitte) -
Raytheon has successfully demonstrated the improved navigation accuracy capability of a new variant of the HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile).
The Block VI called "HDAM" for HARM destruction of enemy air defense attack module adds INS/GPS (inertial navigation system/global positioning system) capability to the battle-proven HARM, greatly improving its effectiveness while significantly reducing collateral damage and the threat to friendly troops.
The test flight took place at the China Lake Test Range, Calif. The missile, launched from an F-16, faced two radar sources and had to select the correct one. The test demonstrated that the added INS/GPS capability ensures that the intended target is attacked instead of other radar sources.
After launch, the first target radar, located outside the HDAM's programmed missile impact zone (MIZ), was turned on first, and the missile rejected this target as being outside the area where attacks were allowed. The HDAM continued searching and locked onto the second radar located in the MIZ as soon as it was turned on. After determining the new source was within the MIZ, the HDAM engaged the correct target.
Raytheon Missile Systems has produced more than 22,500 HARMs since 1985. Customers include the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines and seven international allies.
The program will be performed by Raytheon Company in the U.S. with support from Bodenseewerk Gerätetechnik GmBH (BGT) in Germany. The program is scheduled to begin low rate production in 2007.
A HARM costs about $300,000; the newer HDAM will obviously cost a little more.
A USAF F-16D block 50 firing a regular HARM missile
The test flight took place at the China Lake Test Range, Calif. The missile, launched from an F-16, faced two radar sources and had to select the correct one. The test demonstrated that the added INS/GPS capability ensures that the intended target is attacked instead of other radar sources.
After launch, the first target radar, located outside the HDAM's programmed missile impact zone (MIZ), was turned on first, and the missile rejected this target as being outside the area where attacks were allowed. The HDAM continued searching and locked onto the second radar located in the MIZ as soon as it was turned on. After determining the new source was within the MIZ, the HDAM engaged the correct target.
Raytheon Missile Systems has produced more than 22,500 HARMs since 1985. Customers include the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines and seven international allies.
The program will be performed by Raytheon Company in the U.S. with support from Bodenseewerk Gerätetechnik GmBH (BGT) in Germany. The program is scheduled to begin low rate production in 2007.
A HARM costs about $300,000; the newer HDAM will obviously cost a little more.
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External link:
- HDAM Data Sheet ( Raytheon.com)
Forum discussion:
- HDAM - Harm Block VI ( 26 replies)
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