ORLANDO, FL, January 6th, 2009 — Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has successfully conducted the first live warhead ground launch test of the DAGRâ„¢ guidance kit for the 2.75-inch rocket. DAGR is now 12-for-12 in contractor-funded flight tests.

Conducted at Eglin Air Force Base, FL, the latest test demonstrated DAGR’s vehicle penetration and time-delayed fuzing feature. Lockheed Martin engineers fired a DAGR-equipped rocket armed with a live warhead at a stationary vehicle. It successfully penetrated the side of the vehicle before detonating inside.

“The live warhead test demonstrated DAGR’s ability to increase lethality and reduce collateral damage. The delayed fuze actuation allows the rocket time to penetrate an exterior before the warhead detonates, ensuring defeat of the threat,” said Jerry Brode, DAGR program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “We are very pleased with the test results. DAGR provides Warfighters with greater options on the battlefield.”

Lockheed Martin developed the DAGR system with internal funding. The system includes the rocket and four-pack container that mounts on HELLFIRE compatible launchers.

The DAGR system allows quick and seamless integration on all rotary-wing HELLFIRE platforms, including the Cobra, Apache, Seahawk, Kiowa and Tiger. DAGR is designed to be compatible with the M299 family of launchers, which is currently under evaluation. It provides single-switch operational flexibility with multiple variants of HELLFIRE, for cost-effective multi-mission capability from a single platform.

In guided flight tests, DAGR has repeatedly demonstrated its precision strike and objective maneuverability capabilities, hitting short- and long-range off-axis targets within one meter of the laser designated aim point. This provides Warfighters with increased capability and engagement envelope. In the short range, DAGR is capable of easily engaging targets moving at up to 60 miles per hour and up to 15 degrees off-boresight. From extended ranges and high altitudes, DAGR is capable of engaging targets that are within a 12-kilometer diameter circle below the firing platform.

Source: Lockheed Martin