Lockheed MHTK completes engineering demo
In an engineering demonstration at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, Lockheed Martin’s miniature hit-to-kill (MHTK) interceptor was successfully launched from a multi mission launcher (MML), the company announced on 5 April.
The launch demonstrated the aerodynamic capability and agility of the MHTK missile, which aims to defeat rocket, artillery and mortar (RAM) targets beyond the range of current and interim interceptor systems. The MHTK weighs 5lbs and is just over 61cm in length. The compact size allows multiple rounds of MHTK to be packaged in a single MML tube.
The MHTK uses Hit-to-Kill technology, which uses kinetic energy and body-to-body contact to eliminate threats and aims to remove the risk of collateral damage present in conventional blast fragment interceptors.
Hal Stuart, MHTK program manager, Lockheed Martin, said: ‘This test is a critical milestone demonstrating the interceptor’s maturity, and we look forward to continuing to build on this success using key data gathered from today’s launch.’
The MML is a part of the US Army’s Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 – Intercept programme, which is designed to protect the forces from RAM threats, UAS and cruise missiles.
More from Land Warfare
-
Companies downselected for British Army vehicle programme
It is believed that three companies did not make the downselect but a dark horse in Spain’s Iturri is believed to have got through.
-
Air defence offerings multiply in anticipation of emerging requirements
Air defence and counter-drone weapons continue to be developed, tested and demonstrated in anticipation of growing demand, with most solutions designed to be platform-agnostic and readily integrated onto suitable platforms.
-
September land forces roundup: DVD 2026 puts British Army requirements in the spotlight
The US Army began its search for a 155mm tracked mobile tactical cannon in an effort that Shephard forecasts could be worth billions of dollars. Meanwhile, the UK DVD exhibition saw companies showcase their offerings for the British Army’s mobility and air defence requirements.
-
FNSS advances Indonesian Kaplan APC programme as local production expands
FNSS and PT Pindad are progressing the Indonesian tracked armoured personnel carrier programme as local production gets under way.