In a first-of-its-kind test for Raytheon Accelerated Improved Intercept Initiative system, AI3 (photo) destroyed an unmanned aerial system (UAS) in flight. The intercept was part of the second guided test flights for the AI3 program and follows its first in-flight defeat of a 107mm rocket earlier in the test series.

“Defeating a UAS demonstrates the AI3 system has capabilities beyond its original requirements and can defeat a variety of threats to our warfighters today. This latest success is a testament to our strong partnership with the U.S. Army and our team's commitment to meeting the customer's challenging schedule and cost requirements,” said Steve Bennett, Raytheon Missile Systems' AI3 Program Director.
 
AI3 is designed to protect warfighters by intercepting rockets and other threats in flight. The AI3 Battle Element includes the Ku Radio Frequency System (KRFS) fire control radar, Avenger-based AI3 launcher with technical fire control, Counter Rockets, Artillery and Mortars command and control, and the AI3 missile. Raytheon provides the interceptor, technical fire control and KRFS radar, and serves as support to the government team, which is the overall systems integrator.

The Army will conduct for-the-record testing of AI3 and continue to engage and destroy baseline and enhanced capability targets, including 107mm and other rockets, and UAS threats.

Meanwhile, Raytheon successfully completed its first two Guide to Hit (GTH) test series of the Precision Extended Range Munition (PERM) program for the United States Marine Corps. This GTH tested the structural integrity and the kinematic capability of the round when fired from a smooth bore mortar tube.

The tests confirmed that after launch, the canards and tail fins deploy and the round transitions to steady flight. The test also confirmed that the round would meet expected range and impact angle requirements. The next series of GTH tests will be conducted out of a rifled mortar tube.

“Raytheon is leveraging our extensive experience with precision artillery and munitions to meet an aggressive, 18-month development schedule. Our PERM solution's exceptional accuracy not only means long-range precision fire support; it results in less collateral damage and logistical burden for Marine Corps Expeditionary Forces,” said Tom Bussing, Vice President of Advanced Missile Systems for Raytheon Missile Systems.
 
Raytheon is under contract to deliver mature, production-representations of the 120mm extended range, guided mortar munition for a live-fire demonstration phase by the Marines in early 2014. Following a successful Preliminary Design Review in May, the Raytheon program continues to meet the aggressive Marine Corps schedule.
 
Once fielded, PERM will be used with the M327 rifled towed mortar, the primary weapon system of the Expeditionary Fire Support System. EFSS provides all-weather, ground-based responsive close fires in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.