USN Super Hornet tests StormBreaker
Raytheon Missiles & Defense announced on 15 June that it has completed the first guided release of the GBU-53/B StormBreaker precision-guided glide bomb from a USN F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
During the flight test, StormBreaker (formerly known as the Small Diameter Bomb II) safely separated and successfully received guidance data from the aircraft, enabling it to be directed to its target while in flight.
StormBreaker includes a tri-mode seeker that uses imaging IR and millimetre-wave radar in its normal mode. The weapon can also deploy a semi-active laser or GPS guidance to hit targets.
When the StormBreaker programme reaches IOC later in 2020, the Super Hornet will become the second aircraft type (after the F-15E Eagle) to operate StormBreaker. The weapon is also being installed on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
Cristy Stagg, programme director at Raytheon, claimed: ‘StormBreaker is the only weapon that enables pilots to hit moving targets during bad weather or if dust and smoke are in the area. Super Hornet pilots will be able to use poor visibility to their advantage when StormBreaker integration is complete.’
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