V-22 Osprey

Raytheon has successfully completed a test launch of the Griffin B missile from a V-22 Osprey multi-mission helicopter at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, US.

Working in collaboration with Bell Helicopter’s Xworx as an industry-funded effort, the company demonstrated the simplicity of integrating the Griffin B missile onto the Bell Boeing-built aircraft.

During the test, Bell flight crews launched two missiles, scoring direct hits from both hover mode and during conversion mode at 110k.

Raytheon Air Warfare Systems vice-president Mike Jarrett said: "This is the first time a forward-firing missile has been launched from the V-22.

"It’s an important aspect of the V-22’s capability that integrates a simple to operate, low-cost, precision strike missile, which is something in which the US Air Force Special Operations Command has shown significant interest.

"Griffin B’s successful shots from the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey demonstrate that the missile is flexible and able to integrate on a variety of platforms.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"The results of this test show how the defence industry can partner to quickly put a new, needed capability in the hands of frontline operators."

According to the company, the test results demonstrate the missile’s versatility with its unique ability to engage static and moving targets through a significant range of launch speeds.

"This is the first time a forward-firing missile has been launched from the V-22."

Designated BGM-176B, the Griffin B is a forward-firing missile capable of launching from rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, ground-launch applications and maritime platforms.

The missile features a significant off-axis launch capability, which enables aircrews to accurately strike targets to the left or right of the aircraft flight path.

Under development since 2008, the Griffin is an air and ground-launched, precise, low-collateral-damage weapon developed for use in irregular warfare operations.

Equipped with a 13lb warhead, the missile has been designed to be launched from the ground or air as a rocket-powered missile, or dropped from the air as a guided bomb. It has a proven track record for successful rapid integration on land, sea, and air assets.


Image: Two Griffin B missiles were launched from a V-22 Osprey multi-mission helicopter at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, US. Photo: courtesy of James Haseltine (US Air Force).