Raytheon has completed successful test firing of its new Pike 40mm precision-guided munitions from a standard tube grenade launcher during flight tests at Mile High Resources in Texas, US.
Both rounds are said to have landed within the targeted impact area after flying more than 2,300 yards.
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Raytheon Advanced Land Warfare Systems director J R Smith said: "Pike uses a digital, semi-active laser seeker to engage both fixed and slow-moving, mid-range targets.
"This new guided munition can provide the warfighter with precision, extended-range capability never before seen in a hand-held weapon on the battlefield."
Pike weighs less than 2lbs, measures 16.8in in length, and can be fired from a conventional, single-shot grenade launcher, such as the M320 enhanced grenade launching module, specifically the H&K M320 and the FNH Mk13.
Claimed to be the world’s only hand-launched, precision-guided munition, Pike can travel one-and-a-half miles and hit within five yards or less of a target, minimising collateral damage
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By GlobalDataThe miniaturised laser-guided minition’s rocket motor is able to ignite eight to ten feet after launch and is nearly smokeless for reduced launch signature.
Further Pike upgrades include the ability to launch from platform-mounted launchers on class I and II, unmanned aircraft systems, all-terrain vehicles, ground mobility vehicles, common remotely-operated weapons station and small boats.
Smith said: "Pike will become smarter and smarter as we continue to develop its capabilities. In the current configuration, the warfighter will enter programmable laser codes prior to loading Pike into its launcher.
"Spiral development calls for multiple-round simultaneous programming and targeting with data link capabilities."
