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JASSM Launches Flawlessly From B-2

ORLANDO, FL, August 2nd, 2001 -- The Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) was successfully launched from a B-2 bomber Tuesday over China Lake, Calif. The separation test vehicle demonstrated successful operation of JASSM during captive carry, launch and flight. The test met all objectives and achieved a stable and controlled flight. The B-2 launch occurred at an altitude of 14,000 ft and a speed of Mach 0.8. After the missile successfully separated from the B-2, it began a series of preprogrammed maneuvers, including roll segments through a full 360-degree rotation to collect aerodynamic data. After completing the maneuvers, the missile glided to the ground while steering to the final ground track.

"With this test, the JASSM program completes another milestone. We are on schedule and moving forward to obtain B-2 operational capability," said Larry Lawson, Vice President, Strike Weapons, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "We are further demonstrating our operational flexibility on multiple aircraft, and we continue to meet our aggressive testing schedule."

One of the Department of Defense's highest priority programs, JASSM is designed to give Air Force and Navy pilots long-range standoff capability against a wide array of high value, heavily defended targets. Its anti-jam GPS satellite navigation system, state-of-the-art infrared seeker, 1,000-pound penetrator warhead and stealth airframe makes it extremely difficult to defend against.

With JASSM, pilots will be able to launch the missile from well outside the range of enemy air defenses, and it will cruise autonomously in weather, day or night, with pinpoint accuracy defeat the target. The 2,250 pound 14-ft. long missile is designed to be launched from the B-2, B-52H, B-1B, F-16C/D and F/A-18 E/F aircraft.

Located in Orlando, Fla., and Dallas, Tex., Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, a world leader in electro-optics, smart munitions, advanced combat, missile, rocket and space systems, is an operating element of Lockheed Martin Systems Integration business unit based in Bethesda, Md. Missiles and Fire Control is supported by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company - Palmdale, located in Calif.

Nettie Johnson, 407-356-5351
e-mail nettie.r.johnson@lmco.com