OREANDA-NEWS. Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN), working with the U.S. Army, successfully completed a series of TALON Laser Guided Rocket shots during recent tests.

Firing 25 rockets from both Apache D and E models, the series will help define the Army's small guided munitions requirement and acquisition strategy while also developing combat tactics, techniques and procedures for use with guided Hydra-70 rockets.

"TALON remains the lowest cost and most flexible guided rocket option for the warfighter," said Darryl Kreitman, Raytheon's TALON Laser Guided Rocket program director. "Unlike other guided rockets, TALON requires no lifecycle maintenance, does not contain the complexity of a roll bearing joint and can be purchased as a guidance kit or an all up round."

Additionally, TALON can be fired without hardware modifications to the launch platform or proprietary launchers, making the system even more cost effective and combat ready.

In April 2014, TALON received Apache D/E model Air Worthiness Certification and has continued to expand the engagement envelop and improve Apache rocket load-out options. These aerial tests demonstrated TALON's flexibility and effectiveness against a wide array of threats - including unarmored and lightly armored vehicles while stationary and maneuvering - under various launch conditions. 

About TALON
The TALON LGR is a low-cost, digital semi-active laser guidance and control kit co-developed with the United Arab Emirates. The TALON guidance section fits directly to the front of the legacy 2.75-inch Hydra-70 unguided rocket. TALON's architecture and ease of employment make it a low-cost, highly-precise weapon for missions in urban environments, as well as counter insurgency and swarming boat defense missions. TALON is fully compatible with existing airborne and ground laser designators.

About Raytheon

Raytheon Company, with 2014 sales of \$23 billion and 61,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, civil government and cybersecurity markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 93 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as cybersecurity and a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass.