Colin Whelan, President of Advanced Technology at Raytheon, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, "This is a key step in fielding the Navy's first anti-ship hypersonic missile." Whelan highlighted the urgency of equipping U.S. warfighters with effective technology to counter advanced threats, adding, "It's critical that our warfighters have proven technology that can address advanced threats in contested environments, and they need this technology now."
HALO, envisioned as a carrier-based high-speed missile, is integral to the Navy's long-range fires strategy. The successful integration of this prototype with the Navy's Super Hornet aircraft demonstrates Raytheon's commitment to delivering advanced and compatible weaponry. The fit check conducted on an F/A-18 in the fall was a testament to the seamless integration of HALO with existing military hardware, ensuring that the prototype aligns with the Navy's operational frameworks and support equipment.
The rapid development of Raytheon's HALO prototype, achieved in just a few months, was made possible by employing digital and model-based engineering techniques. This innovative approach underscores the shift in defense manufacturing towards digital engineering, which allows for expedited development and more efficient design processes.
Raytheon's expertise in hypersonics is a critical factor in the fast-paced development of the HALO missile. Hypersonic missiles, capable of traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5, are increasingly vital in modern warfare due to their ability to outmaneuver traditional defense systems. The HALO program is poised to enhance the U.S. Navy's offensive capabilities significantly, providing a strategic advantage in high-threat environments.
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