Lockheed, PerkinElmer Demo Missile Fuze

ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 24 -- Lockheed Martin and teammate PerkinElmer Optoelectronics demonstrated the multitarget warhead fuze for Lockheed Martin's proposed joint common missile (JCM) in a series of tests completed earlier this month at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The multitarget fuze is capable of detonating the precursor and main warheads at different times, depending on the type of target being attacked.

The JCM is an air-to-ground precision missile that will replace the Hellfire, Longbow and Maverick air-to-ground missiles currently in the US arsenal.

According to Lockheed Martin JCM program director Steve Barnoske, "The multitarget programmable fuze, developed by our teammate PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, applies cutting-edge technology to provide diverse-mission, multitarget capability for the JCM. The testing series demonstrated target penetration and delayed initiation performance required to defeat urban structures and water patrol craft."

The Lockheed Martin JCM includes a tri-mode seeker with imaging infrared, semi-active laser and millimeter wave radar capabilities for active and passive "fire-and-forget" and precision-strike targeting. This will increase crew survivability and minimize collateral damage, the company said.

For more information, visit: www.lockheedmartin.com