A USAF joint air-to-surface standoff missile-extended range (JASSM-ER) has successfully completed a sixth flight demonstration test.
During the flight test at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, the missile was released from a B-1B aircraft.
The missile flew a pre-planned course to collect data, before destroying the designated target.
The Lockheed JASSM-ER has similar capabilities as the baseline JASSM, with only the exception of additional range of greater than 500nm.
The additional range keeps the JASSM-ER clear of highly defended airspace and beyond the range of long-range, surface-to-air missiles while providing responsive, precision-engagement capability.
Like the baseline, the JASSM-ER also maintains the outer mould line, survivability and lethality.
The initial operational capability of the missile integrated on the B-1B is planned for early 2013.
The JASSM-ER design is compatible with the B-2, B-52, and F-16 aircraft that deploy JASSM.
The JASSM-ER will continue integrated flight testing through to mid-2010 in preparation for operational test and evaluation, which will begin in 2011.
