The captive carry test involved placing a data link, which is under evaluation for potential integration with the MLRS Family of Munitions (MFOM), within an aircraft designed to emulate the rocket's surface-to-surface trajectory. The test successfully demonstrated the capability to transmit target updates during the rocket's flight, thereby enhancing the precision of long-range fires.
The RIG-360 uplinker prototype forms part of Lockheed Martin's broader effort to push the boundaries of "art-of-the-possible" capabilities. Developed through internal funding, the prototype allows for 360-degree in-flight communications, effectively supporting the Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD).
Scott Arnold, Vice President of Integrated Air and Missile Defense at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, commented, "This test is a big step forward to advancing the U.S. Army's Joint Fires vision." Arnold emphasized the significance of providing the Army with the ability to engage moving targets in contested environments.
He added, "This proof-of-concept aims to enable Army deep-strike capabilities with offensive fires against moving targets in contested environments, a critical capability to drive agility within the US Army's connected network and keep our customers ahead of evolving threats."
A subsequent Joint Fires flight test is slated for 2024, focusing on further validating the in-flight target update capabilities that have been demonstrated. This progression aligns with the broader vision for the U.S. Army's IAMD, which seeks to integrate both offensive and defensive systems.
Jay Price, Vice President of Precision Fires at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, noted, "Integrating offensive and defensive systems provides rapid response capability to defeat critical threats." Price considers the test as an affirmation of Lockheed Martin's commitment to advancing 21st-century security protocols and delivering next-generation capabilities.
Lockheed Martin is actively involved in turning the RIG-360 concept into a functional tactical capability. The company is currently working under an engineering, manufacturing, and development (EMD) contract, which encompasses the design, construction, testing, and fielding of RIG-360 for Army IAMD. When implemented, the system will notably enhance missile performance by expanding the Army's operational area. Moreover, it will facilitate optimized sensor and shooter capabilities within the Army's Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) architecture.
In summary, Lockheed Martin's successful captive carry test has implications for the future of long-range precision fires and the U.S. Army's Joint Fires concept. The test demonstrated the feasibility of providing in-flight target updates to rockets, thereby improving the precision and flexibility of offensive strikes in challenging operational scenarios.
The AI Three Analysts
Relevance Rating:
Defense Industry Analyst: 9/10
Stock Market Analyst: 7/10
General Industry Analyst: 8/10
Comprehensive Analyst Summary:
Main Points:
The article outlines a significant milestone in Lockheed Martin's development of the Remote Interceptor Guidance - 360 (RIG-360) uplinker prototype. The company successfully demonstrated the prototype's ability to provide real-time target updates to a Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) during a captive carry test. This advancement stands to benefit the U.S. Army's Joint Fires vision by enhancing long-range precision strike capabilities, particularly against mobile and relocated targets. A subsequent test is planned for 2024.
Implications:
Defense Industry Analyst:
This development is seminal for precision-guided munitions and Joint Fires capabilities, marking a continued trend in enhancing battlefield situational awareness and agility. The technology has the potential to be a game-changer in conflicts where rapid and precise response is vital. It aligns with the U.S. Army's emphasis on integrating offensive and defensive capabilities in a multi-domain operational environment.
Stock Market Analyst:
Lockheed Martin continues to secure its position as a front-runner in defense technologies, indicating a potentially favorable investment profile. Given that the development is internally funded, a successful deployment could result in sizable contracts from the U.S. military, positively affecting Lockheed Martin's stock value.
General Industry Analyst:
This innovation underscores the increasing integration of real-time data and connectivity in defense systems, reflecting a broader industry trend towards the use of advanced analytics and AI in mission-critical applications.
Comparisons with Past Events and Trends:
Over the past 25 years, there has been a significant emphasis on the development of precision-guided munitions, beginning with laser-guided bombs and progressing to the sophisticated GPS-guided systems of today. The RIG-360 concept fits into this trend but pushes it further by incorporating real-time data updates during flight, enhancing flexibility and adaptability. The shift towards interoperability and network-centric warfare, evident since the late 1990s, is clearly embodied in this technology.
Investigative Questions:
+ How does the RIG-360 uplinker prototype differ in technical specifications from existing systems used for in-flight target adjustments in guided munitions?
+ What are the economic implications of the RIG-360's integration for Lockheed Martin and its subcontractors, considering it's an internally funded project?
+ How does this development align with or diverge from the U.S. Department of Defense's current and future budget allocations for precision munitions and Joint Fires capabilities?
+ In what specific conflict scenarios or operational theaters would the RIG-360 system offer substantial tactical advantages over existing systems?
+ Given the increasing threats of electronic countermeasures and anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) capabilities by potential adversaries, how resilient is the RIG-360 system against electronic warfare and jamming?
The answers to these questions will not only deepen the understanding of RIG-360's potential impacts but also provide a robust framework for analyzing its strategic, economic, and operational implications.
Related Links
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