Precision Mortar Seeker Survives Gun-Level Shock Test

BAE Systems, NASHUA: BAE Systems has successfully completed initial 120mm mortar weapon-level launch shock tests of its semi-active laser seeker for the U.S. Army's XM395 Precision Guided Mortar Munition (PGMM) cartridge. The seeker met all test objectives and maintained accuracy during an evaluation at Alliant Techsystems' (ATK) rail gun test facility in Elk River, Minn. 
 
The milestone success opens the way to the program's next phase — guided flight demonstrations scheduled for this spring. 
 
“This successful rail gun test is a key stepping-out point for the PGMM program,” said Dave Rathe, ATK program manager for PGMM. “The team is pleased with BAE Systems' accomplishments to date, and we continue to be impressed by the capability of the semi-active laser seeker. The ATK-led team is confident in our readiness to start the first phase of the PGMM flight test program.” 
 
BAE Systems is partnered with ATK on the PGMM program, an advanced weapon system that offers soldiers a precise, multipurpose indirect fire capability. The nose-mounted seeker is one of several components in the PGMM cartridge. The ATK-led program is currently in system design and development, with production expected to begin in late 2008. 
 
“This was an extremely stressful test on the hardware,” said Kim Cadorette, BAE Systems' PGMM program manager. “The seeker passed the test without degradation. We are continuing with production and look forward to the upcoming seeker and mortar-round guided flight tests.” 
 
The semi-active laser seeker uses BAE Systems' Distributed Aperture Semi-Active Laser Seeker technology, which has exceptionally high sensitivity coupled with accurate angle accuracy over a large field of view. ATK and the U.S. Army have planned extensive testing to ensure that the first PGMM production rounds will be ready for delivery by 2010.  
 
BAE Systems is the premier transatlantic defense and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With more than 100,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded $28 billion in 2005.