Aero India 2017: Textron reports G-Claw testing
Textron Systems Weapon and Sensor Systems' G-Claw precision guided glide weapon has undergone successful testing at Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona, the company announced on 14 February.
The testing was carried out against static and moving targets from a Cessna Caravan aircraft, with engagement reported as within one metre circular error probable. The weapon transferred navigation from a GPS-aided inertial navigation system to the semi-active laser sensor for terminal guidance, with Textron reporting that the results verified end-to-end guidance through successful engagement of an off-axis target greater than two kilometers downrange from the aircraft.
G-Claw incorporates tri-mode fuzing - height of burst, impact and delay - to maximise effects against a broad target set. The weapon has been designed with modularity to support rapid incorporation of emerging technologies in guidance, seekers and warhead effects, and to allow it to be adapted to changing mission requirements at minimum development cost.
In addition to the Caravan, the weapon can be integrated onto aircraft including the Textron AirLand Scorpion jet, and launch systems such as the Common Launch Tube, using a roll-on/roll-off battle management system.
Brian Sinkiewicz, senior vice president and general manager, Weapon and Sensor Systems, said: 'We are pleased with the test results and development progress of the G-Claw precision guided weapon system.'
More from Defence Notes
-
Rheinmetall reports “boom” as results hit new records with orders for vehicles, ammunition and weapons
Rheinmetall is riding high as Europe scrambles to boost its defence forces and replenish spent stockpiles sent to Ukraine.
-
UK Parliament told that Europe needs to do more within NATO and undertake reforms
Speaking before a committee on European affairs, the speakers addressed recent developments following an eventful few days. During this period, the UK pushed for increased support for Ukraine, while the EU eased budget constraints to allow for greater defence spending. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, US President Donald Trump introduced tariffs that could impact the defence industry.
-
What does the US decision to pause Ukraine support mean for the war and the stock markets?
NATO and other Western countries had been singing from the same song sheet since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia three years ago but the alliance has been weakened as the new US administration under President Donald Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine.
-
Ireland begins work on buying fighter jets and doubling the naval fleet
Since the release of Ireland’s Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) report two years ago there have been whisperings about the potential of Ireland buying fighter jets, one of the most ambitious recommendations. The prospect has now inched closer.
-
UK defence budget increased to 2.5% by 2027 as geopolitical landscape darkens
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer raises defence spending, while both NATO and President Trump demand significant further increases.