L-3 Communications and Raytheon have successfully test fired Raytheon-built Talon laser-guided rockets (LGR) from an L-3 remote weapon station using an LAU-68 launcher.
During the testing, the lightweight remote weapon system demonstrated its ability to provide protection for small ships against swarming-boat threats, using currently fielded launcher, sensor systems and Talon missiles.
Raytheon Naval and Area Mission Defense product line vice-president Rick Nelson said the Talon LGR when combined with advanced remote weapon station, offers an affordable, effective and available solution.
"It also demonstrates our ability to reach across Raytheon’s wide portfolio of products and team with companies around the globe to develop new solutions," Nelson said.
Capable of carrying up to seven Talons, the self-contained remote rocket weapon system features an electro-optical sensor and laser designator, all weighing approximately 500lbs.
L-3 Integrated Optical Systems’ Pittsburgh facility vice-president and general manager, Dave Wessing, said: "L-3 and Raytheon developed a versatile, lightweight and economical solution to provide protection against asymmetrical threats."
The weapon system, which uses only a target queue to engage on-mount target tracking, can be integrated on ships ranging in size from riverine to major surface combatants.
A cooperative development programme between Raytheon and the UAE, Talon features digital semiactive laser technology to provide precision accuracy at low cost for 2.75-inch/70mm rockets while its versatility supports sea, air and ground launch applications.
The advanced remote weapon station is a lightweight, small footprint, low-cost mount designed to provide multiple sensor options for detection, tracking and targeting.
The system requires no deck penetration and is easily configurable for medium calibre weapons or 2.75-inch rockets.
Integrated and field tested with Talon missiles, the LAU-68 is a seven round, battle-tested 2.75-inch guided and unguided rocket launcher and is reloadable at sea.
