An Abu Dhabi-based firm has signed a co-operative development agreement with Raytheon to develop a laser-guided rocket for military customers in the United Arab Emirates, the USA and elsewhere.
The agreement with Emirates Advanced Investments (EAI) revives a technology from Raytheon's failed bid to win the US Army's advanced precision kill weapon system (APKWS) programme. UAE officials also view the deal as an opportunity to develop expertise in developing and producing advanced weapons technology.
"This programme represents a hands-on development effort for our engineers that will provide future benefits for the armed forces of both our countries," says EAI chief executive Hussain Al Hammadi. "It is designed to destroy targets ranging from tactical armoured vehicles to high-speed naval craft and will provide a very affordable precision weapon for attack helicopters."
Raytheon originally planned to develop a semi-active laser for the army's APKWS II programme, but lost the competition to BAE Systems. The contract has since been aborted through a funding cut by the US Congress.
The new agreement means Raytheon and EAI will seek approval by governments to transfer technology to produce the laser-guided rocket. The first rockets will be qualified on a single UAE platform, although the type was not disclosed.
US military customers, meanwhile, could buy a "fully qualified laser-guided rocket that meets or exceeds all the guided 70mm rocket requirements of the USA", says Raytheon.
EAI will also seek to explore similar joint programmes with Raytheon in the future.
Source: Flight International