Raytheon, Emirates Advanced Investments Develop Talon Laser-Guided Rocket System

Raytheon and the Emirates Advanced Investments (EAI) have jointly produced the Talon Laser-Guided Rocket system that is compatible with existing rockets, making it more precise against air and land targets. The production of the system is expected to commence shortly by 2011 end.

Raytheon has entered into the special partnership as part of its efforts to improve indigenous talent in the UAE. The country will incorporate the Talon system with its battlefield helicopters such as Blackhawks and Apaches and is also testing the compatibility of the system with fixed-wing aircraft.

The laser-guided rocket systems have been examined on Apache helicopters to assure their ability to fire safely for a test range. Testing was also conducted on the systems’ firing ability at minimum and maximum range and when the aircraft is traveling. The system can also be used for border monitoring and control.

Jim Byrne, Raytheon's programme director for laser guided rocket, stated that the final phase of testing the systems would be conducted in few months and the laser-guided system assembling units would be constructed in the UAE.