JSOW C-1 completes operational tests
Raytheon and the US Navy have successfully completed all operational tests for the Joint Standoff Weapon C-1 (JSOW C-1), making it ready for service in the US Navy and declaration of Initial Operational Capability, it was announced on 12 July.
JSOW C-1 features a Link-16 datalink and maritime moving target capability at launch ranges of up to 70 nautical miles from both fourth-generation fighter aircraft and the fifth-generation Joint Strike Fighter. The weapon has demonstrated precision and effectiveness against moving maritime targets throughout developmental, integrated and operational test phases.
JSOW C-1 successfully engaged simulated combatant ships in a realistic scenario in recent testing. The Link 16 datalink allows the alternate controller or launch platform to provide real-time target updates to JSOW C-1. The update allows the weapon to hit a moving target and enables controllers to reassign it to a different target while in flight.
Celeste Mohr, JSOW program director at Raytheon, said: 'JSOW C-1 provides the US Navy with the first air-launched, net-enabled weapon with the ability to engage both stationary, land-based and manoeuvring, sea-based targets. JSOW's datalink enables more precise control of the weapon and greater flexibility in how it is deployed.'
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