MDC plans SLAM-ER test on F-18

McDONNELL DOUGLAS (MDC) is to flight-test a dummy Standoff Land Attack Missile Expanded Response (SLAM ER) on the F-18 by the middle of the month. The loads flight-test is intended to demonstrate that the SLAM ER does not affect the F-18's weapons-carriage envelope. The test will involve an aerodynamic test-vehicle, representative of the SLAM ER previously used in ground trials to verify clearances for handling, loading and carriage of the extended-range SLAM derivative. The first test firing of the SLAM ER is scheduled for February 1997. MDC says that the programme is on schedule, following completion of the critical design review in late March.

Source: Flight International