Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) today unveiled the Direct Attack Guided Rocket (DAGR), a 2.75 inch guided rocket developed as a company funded initiative, designed g to defeat targets in urban operations, while minimizing collateral damage. The DAGR is fully compatible with the Hellfire II laser guided missiles, increasing M299 smart launcher load-out by up to four times. Its off-axis capability also provides an increased engagement envelope by supporting launch from unmanned aerial vehicle platforms. During flight testing conducted in February 2007, DAGR demonstrated objective maneuverability capability for minimum range engagements. Later in 2007 Lockheed Martin plans to complete a full test flight matrix for unmanned aerial vehicles and helicopters, as well as perform platform launch. The new rocket uses semi-active laser guidance system, employing lock-on-before-launch, lock-on- after-launch, and target location handoff, programmable laser coding, and flexible fly-out modes. Designed to be ‘plug-and-play’ compatible with Hellfire systems, the DAGR will be able to launch from any platform that currently supports the Hellfire weapon system.
The missile completed its first flight February 15, 2007 launched from a surrogate HIMARS launcher. Further tests are planned in the near future, demonstrating confirming rocket motor performance, maneuvering and aeroballistics.
