Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) unveiled the GRIZZLY containerised launcher for AGM-114 Hellfire and possibly AGM-179 JAGM missiles, stating that it completed firing tests.
Following the tests of the M299 mini-VLS intended for AGM-114 Hellfire and AGM-179 JAGM ATGMs, Lockheed Martin has developed GRIZZLY as a containerised solution based on the VLS.
Lockheed Martin, stating that multiple firing tests have been completed, added that GRIZZLY uses 10 ft containers and draws from the M299 JQL VLS module.
Considering the size of the container and each module carrying four AGM-114/AGM-179 missiles, it is possible that each GRIZZLY can be fitted with at least eight missiles.
Containerised launchers offer rapid and flexible deployment thanks to operating as a standalone unit. This advantage is being explored as an alternative means of weapon integration on ships that normally do not have provisions for a specific weapon, in addition to ground-based use.
Alongside M299 JQL proposed for light vehicles and patrol boats, and the containerised GRIZZLY for vertically launched AGM-114/AGM-179 missiles, Lockheed Martin is also making a push for a new fire support vehicle concept alongside German Rheinmetall, based on Fuchs AFV armed with 24 mini-VLS cells for 360-degree engagement.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
