A new network-enabled AGM-84N Harpoon Block II+ missile system has successfully completed a free-flight test at the US Navy’s Sea Range at Point Mugu, California.
During the first end-to-end functionality test, an inert autonomously guided Harpoon Block II+ missile successfully hit a moving ship target.
The missile was integrated onto an F/A-18 fighter jet and received target location updates through its network-enabled datalink.
Harpoon / Standoff Land Attack Missile – Extended Range deputy programme manager commander Matt Farr said: "This successful free-flight test is a tremendous achievement for the joint Boeing and navy team, and reflects their hard work and dedication over the past several years.
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By GlobalData"We are on schedule to deliver this important capability to the fleet in 2017, giving the US Navy a significant advantage in anti-surface warfare."
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The upgrades provided to the missile will enable it to receive in-flight updates that improve the targeting and engagement of moving maritime targets.
This test follows after the missile was put through 152 lab-test sessions, 15 aircraft ground tests and 16 flight tests.
Precision Strike Weapons programme manager captain Jaime Engdahl said: "The Harpoon missile is the premier surface warfare weapon in service today and we are working to ensure that it remains viable and lethal into the future.
"Block II+ is a critical capability for us and we are taking every opportunity to pace the growing maritime threat by continuously improving Harpoon’s range, survivability, and lethality."
Featuring a new GPS guidance kit for enhanced weapon’s navigation, the all-weather, over-the-horizon weapon can conduct both land-strike and anti-ship missions against a range of targets.
So far, a total of 7,500 missiles have been delivered to the US Navy and its 29 foreign partners.
The missile is set to undergo another developmental test in 2016.
Image: An F/A-18 carries the new Harpoon Block II+ missile during a free flight test. Photo: courtesy of US Navy photo.
