First CKEM Flight Test Completed Successfully

Released on Tuesday, November 11, 2003

Lockheed-Martin has announced that the Compact Kinetic Energy Missile (CKEM) was tested successfully for the first time at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

The test demonstrated multiple CKEM components feasibility in an operational environment. CKEM will provide Future Combat Systems (FCS) with the capability to defeat any current and future ground armored threats protected with APSs or ERA.

The CKEM is the next generation hypervelocity anti-tank missile. The current prototype is 60 inches (1.52 m) long and weighs less than 100 pounds (45 kg). Its extended range will make possible to engage line-of-sight targets, while providing FCS infantry companies a weapon able to kill any armored vehicle with a single shot and a near fire and forget capability.

The CKEM System Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase is scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year 2006. According to current plans, CKEM weapon system will be fielded within US Army Stryker Interim Brigades along with FCS units.