Three firms have answered a UK Defence Procurement Agency request for proposals (RFP) for a new precision-guided bomb (PGB) that will equip standard 225kg (500lb) Mk82-typewarheads with new guidance systems and an enhanced fuze.
PGB is intended to counter problems using laser-guided weapons in poor weather, which obscures the target and makes precision visual guidance impossible. To circumvent the problem, GPS-satellite navigation is added to the guidance system.
RFP responses have been submitted by MBDA teamed with Boeing and Insys (formerly Hunting Defence), offering a version of the US company's Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM); Raytheon Systems UK with Paveway-based systems; and France's Sagem, offering the Armament Air Sol Modulaire (AASM). Elbit Systems and Leigh Aerosystems were also issued with the RFP (Flight International, 17-23 July 2001).
The UK plans to downselect two teams by the end of May. Selection is due in the second quarter of 2003, with integration trials to start in 2004, it says.
The UKplans to acquire up to 3,000 PGBs, plus options, to equip the BAE Systems Harrier GR9/9A, Eurofighter and Panavia Tornado GR4. Service entry is set for 2006.
Source: Flight International
