The American company RTX is preparing for the first tests of a new modification of the high-precision aerial bomb GBU-53/B StormBreaker, which will be equipped with a turbojet engine to increase the range of destruction. This is reported by Defense Express with reference to Defence Industry Europe, writes UNN.
Details
The project went from concept to preparation for the first flight in less than a year. This was stated by RTX CEO Chris Calio during the presentation of the company's financial results. At the same time, he did not specify when exactly the tests will begin, what characteristics the new weapon will have, and who will be its first customer.
According to the publication, the new version of StormBreaker will receive a modified TJ-150 turbojet engine produced by Pratt & Whitney.
The range may exceed 100 kilometers
As Defense Express notes, official characteristics are not yet disclosed, but according to the concept, the new StormBreaker resembles the British Spear 3 cruise missile, which uses a similar engine.
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Spear 3 is capable of hitting targets at a distance of over 100 kilometers, and according to some estimates – over 140 kilometers. In contrast, the basic GBU-53/B StormBreaker without an engine has a range of 72 to 110 kilometers depending on the drop altitude.
Defense Express notes that installing a jet engine could significantly increase the flight range of the new modification, as well as reduce dependence on launch altitude. This will allow carrier aircraft to use the munition from a safer distance, reducing the risk of being hit by enemy air defense and fighter aviation.
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