The Emirates Advanced Investments (EAI) Group and Raytheon have completed a TALON Laser-Guided Rocket (LGR) operational demonstration in Abu Dhabi.
TALON Laser-Guided Rocket. Credit: Raytheon
The TALON Laser-Guided Rocket is a semi-active laser guidance and control kit. It can be connected to the front portion of 2.75 in. unguided rockets that are normally part of international inventories. The launch platforms do not require any modification as the LGR is compatible with current ground and airborne laser designators. It is less expensive than heavy guided missiles and better than unguided rockets.
The TALON LGR went 3-for-3 during the operational flight demonstration, when it was air-launched from AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters. The rockets were fired at moving and stationary targets and all the shots were successful. As the demonstration met in the objectives, the pathway for production has been cleared. The LGR is to be produced in the United Arab Emirates and in the United States.
The TALON LGR has been tested for long range capabilities up to a distance of 6 km and for short range capabilities to a distance of 1.2 km. The rocket has also been launch tested from stationary and moving platforms.
EAI Group’s Chairman, Hussain Al Hammadi, stated that the LGR system demonstrated the collaborative design efforts of the two companies. The president of Raytheon Missile Systems, Dr. Taylor Lawrence, stated that the demonstration proved the abilities of the LGR and that it was ready for production.