Elbit Systems is developing more precision weapons using its capabilities in lasers and electro-optics.
The Israeli company is the sole supplier of the laser seeker that is part of the laser Joint Direct Attack Munition used by the US Navy.
Elbit Systems is showing some of its advanced precision weapon systems at the show.
The laser JDAM is a Boeing product and Elbit Systems was chosen to supply the special laser sensor.
Laser JDAMs are already employed in the navy's weapons arsenal.
Boeing officials said that adding direct-attack moving target capability to laser JDAMs will improve the smart munitions' moving and manoeuvring capability beyond current laser JDAM capabilities. The new direct-attack moving target capability weapons JDAMs will ensure the navy has the ability to combat stationary, fast-moving or manoeuvring land targets by combining a precision laser seeker to acquire and track laser-targeted signals and the JDAM guidance tail kit.
Elbit Systems will soon demonstrate its guided advanced tactical rocket to the Israeli air force.
According to Elbit Systems aerospace division joint general manager Yoram Shmuely, the GATR is aimed at replacing the Hellfire missile.
He said: "it will cost one-third of the price and will be tailored to asymmetric warfare that is the type fought around the world."
A deal to sell the GATR is said to be "very close".
Shmuely said that the GATR will be easily fitted to combat helicopters currently armed withe the Hellfire missile.
"It will have an effective range of 8km (4.3nm), and with the laser guidance will ensure very precise hits."
The GATR is being developed jointly by Elbit Systems and ATK. The two companies performed the initial flight tests of the new low-cost missile in 2009.
GATR is a precision strike weapon designed to minimise collateral damage, while providing stand-off deployment against a wide array of target sets.
"It is not designed to penetrate a tank but will destroy most of other moving targets," said Shmuely.
GATR supports lock-on before or after launch as well as autonomous or remote laser designation.
The system can be deployed against targets at ranges of 1.5-8km from fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. It is compatible with existing launcher hardware.
GATR will be particularly effective in urban areas or against targets where low collateral damage is required.
- All the latest news, images and video from the 2011 Paris air show
Source: Flight Daily News
