AASM Smart Munition Completes First Flight Test Series

Released on Monday, September 05, 2005

The French Defense Procurement Agency, known as DGA, has completed the first test series of the AASM modular Air-to-Ground Weapon on the French Air Force Mirage 2000 multi-role fighter. The AASM being tested is the variant featuring a 10 meters Circular Error Probable (CEP).

The first test campaign was aimed at validating the AASM increased range powered by an undisclosed propulsion system, most likely rocket propulsion. DGA has conducted 10 firings on the Mirage 2000 and anticipated that the next test campaign will focus on AASM all weather capabilities on the Rafale aircraft. Moreover, the second test campaign will ensure smooth transition from the development phase to first operational deployment by 2006.

The AASM family of smart munitions has been developed by SAGEM DS comprising two versions weighing 250 kg (500 pounds) with CEP around 10 and one meter. The weapon range remains undisclosed but it is said that is about several tens of kilometers. The 10-meter CEP AASM, relying on inertial and GPS guidance, will be first deployed on the Rafale Standard F2 in 2006 with the one meter CEP version following by 2008. The first test campaign began one year ago on 6 September 2004. After declared operational, AASM will provide affordable, all weather strike capability to the French Air Force fighters.