The AARGM MMW seeker can operate in concert with the ARH
to counter RF shutdown tactics or in a stand-alone mode to
discriminate non-emitting time sensitive targets. AARGM is
a network-enabled weapon that directly receives tactical intelligence
information via an embedded data link and provides near real-time
Weapon Impact Assessment (WIA) reports.
In
May 2007 of this year, AARGM demonstrated its significant
capability by successfully completing a development-phase
guided missile test firing at the Naval Air Warfare Center
China Lake, California test range. The success of the AARGM
System Development and Demonstration (SD&D) phase builds
on the tradition of success established with the Quick Bolt
Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD) and AARGM
Advanced Technology Demonstration (ATD) phases of the program.
During these earlier program phases, AARGM was seven of seven
in a series of successful missile firing tests. The AARGM
program plans a series of additional launches during the SD&D
phase and expects to begin Low Rate Initial Production in
FY08.
Alliant Techsystems (NYSE:ATK) and German defense contractor
MBDA LFK-Lenkflugkorpersysteme GmbH will jointly pursue potential
international sales of the AGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation
Guided Missile (AARGM). The cooperation focuses particularly
on the interest of the German Ministry of Defense in product
improvement of the AARGM and additional derivatives of the
AGM-88 High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM). Italy has
already partnered with ATK on the AARGM two years ago. The
AARGM program plans a series of additional launches during
the SD&D phase and expects to begin Low Rate Initial Production
in FY08.