Raytheon's StormBreaker® completes first guided release from Super Hornet in U.S. Navy flight test

Rhea-AI Summary

Raytheon Missiles & Defense, part of Raytheon Technologies (NYSE: RTX), achieved a significant milestone with the successful guided release of its StormBreaker® smart weapon from the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. This marks the second fighter jet integration of StormBreaker, following its first implementation on the F-15E Eagle. The weapon's unique tri-mode seeker allows engagement of moving targets in adverse conditions. The program is set to reach initial operational capability later this year, further enhancing the capabilities of naval aviators.

Positive

• Successful guided release of StormBreaker from F/A-18E/F Super Hornet enhances military capabilities.
• StormBreaker integration on multiple platforms, including F-15E and F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, expands market opportunities.
• The weapon's tri-mode seeker allows targeting in poor visibility, offering a tactical advantage.

Negative

• None.

TUCSON, Ariz., June 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Missiles & Defense, a Raytheon Technologies business (NYSE: RTX), completed the first guided release of a StormBreaker^® smart weapon from an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, which will become the second fighter jet to add the weapon when the program reaches initial operational capability later this year. 

"StormBreaker is the only weapon that enables pilots to hit moving targets during bad weather or if dust and smoke are in the area," said Cristy Stagg, StormBreaker program director. "Super Hornet pilots will be able to use poor visibility to their advantage when StormBreaker integration is complete."

During the U.S. Navy flight test, StormBreaker safely separated from the jet and successfully received guidance data from the plane, enabling it to be directed to its target while in flight.

StormBreaker features a revolutionary tri-mode seeker that uses imaging infrared and millimeter wave radar in its normal mode. The weapon can also deploy its semi-active laser or GPS guidance to hit targets.

The F-15E Eagle is the first platform to add StormBreaker; it's also being integrated on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

To learn more about StormBreaker, visit us here.

About Raytheon Missiles & Defense
Raytheon Missiles & Defense produces a broad portfolio of advanced technologies, including air and missile defense systems, precision weapons, radars, and command and control systems – delivering end-to-end solutions to detect, track and engage threats. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, the business generated $16 billion in pro forma annual revenue in 2019 and has 30,000 employees globally. Raytheon Missiles & Defense is one of four businesses that form Raytheon Technologies Corporation.

Media Contact
Ian Davis
978-284-9579
RMDPR@rtx.com

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SOURCE Raytheon Technologies

FAQ

What is the significance of the StormBreaker weapon test by Raytheon (RTX)?

The test represents a successful guided release of StormBreaker from the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, enhancing its operational capabilities in adverse weather.

When will the StormBreaker program achieve initial operational capability?

The StormBreaker program is expected to reach initial operational capability later this year.

Which fighter jets are integrating the StormBreaker weapon?

StormBreaker is being integrated into the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-15E Eagle, and F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

What technology does the StormBreaker weapon use?

StormBreaker features a tri-mode seeker utilizing imaging infrared, millimeter wave radar, semi-active laser, and GPS guidance.