StormBreaker completes first guided release from Super Hornet in U.S. Navy flight test

StormBreaker completes first guided release from Super Hornet in U.S. Navy flight test 1
The weaponโ€™s seeker works in three modes to provide maximum operational flexibility: Millimeter wave radar, IIR and semi-active laser.
Raytheon Missiles & Defense, a Raytheon Technologies business, completed the first guided release of a StormBreakerยฎ smart weapon from an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
Share
F/A-18E/F is latest fighter jet to integrate precision weapon

Raytheon press release

The Super Hornet will become the second fighter jet to add the weapon when the program reaches initial operational capability later this year.

“StormBreaker is the only weapon that enables pilots to hit moving targets during bad weather or if dust and smoke are in the area. Super Hornet pilots will be able to use poor visibility to their advantage when StormBreaker integration is complete.”


Cristy Stagg, StormBreaker program director

During the U.S. Navy flight test, StormBreaker safely separated from the jet and successfully received guidance data from the plane, enabling it to be directed to its target while in flight.

StormBreaker features a revolutionary tri-mode seeker that uses imaging infrared and millimeter wave radar in its normal mode. The weapon can also deploy its semi-active laser or GPS guidance to hit targets.

The F-15E Eagle is the first platform to add StormBreaker; it’s also being integrated on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

The US Air Forceโ€™s newest weapon, StormBreakerยฎ, has a unique tri-mode seeker that enables pilots to hit moving targets in adverse weather or low visibility. Integration is progressing on several US fighter jets including the F-15E and now the F-18 Super Hornet.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement