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The global defence juggernauts have conducted live-fire tests of their jointly-developed hypersonic strike systems.
Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman have completed a live fire hypersonic strike system test in support of the US Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) and the US Army’s Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) programs
The companies tested the first stage solid rocket motor, which fired for the full trial duration and reportedly met performance parameters and objectives within anticipated ranges.
“We’re pleased to celebrate this important event with the US Navy, Army and Northrup Grumman,” Steve Layne, program director of Conventional Strike Programs at Lockheed Martin, said.
“This outcome today is due to our shared effort and determination to see this test on the Conventional Prompt Strike program succeed.
“This live fire event is a major milestone on the path to providing hypersonic strike capability to the US Navy and US Army warfighters.”
Under the primes’ joint arrangement, Northrop Grumman has been tasked with developing the motor, while Lockheed Martin serves as the prime weapon systems integrator to provide boost capability to the US Navy and US Army hypersonic strike missile.
"Northrop Grumman is proud to leverage our expertise in flight-proven solid rocket propulsion to support the nation’s efforts to develop an advanced end-to-end missile system capable of deterring emerging and future threats," Charlie Precourt, vice president of propulsion systems at Northrop Grumman, said.
CPS is designed to enable long range flight with high survivability against enemy defences.
CPS and LRHW share a common all up round that can be launched from surface ships, submarines, and land-based mobile launchers.
[Related: Lockheed Martin to develop long-range lunar vehicles]
