JCM Performs Successfully in F/A-18E/F Wind Tunnel Tests

Released on Monday, April 18, 2005

Lockheed-Martin has successfully completed initial F/A-18E/F Super Hornet integration wind tunnel tests of its Joint Common Missile (JCM). The JCM will provide Super Hornet pilots the capability to defeat 21st century threats with low collateral damage.

The wind tunnel tests were conducted at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Ames Research Center's 11-foot (3.3-meter) wind tunnel in San Jose, California, and at the Boeing Vertol 20-foot (6-meter) wind tunnel in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The test were aimed at simulating various carry configurations of the JCM and its Joint Dual-Rail Launcher (JDRL), manufactured by EDO Corporation.

The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fitted with JDRLs will be able to carry up to 12 JCMs replacing the AGM-65 Maverick. The JDRL prototype electronics have already performed initial integration testing in the US Navy's Advanced Weapons Laboratory at China Lake, California. The Super Hornet has already been tested carrying full-scale mock-up JDRL launchers at China Lake too.

In addition to the Super Hornet, the JCM weapon system will be provided to AH-64D Apache and AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopters; MH-60R and MH-60S armed reconnaissance helicopters. The advanced JCM will replace current Hellfire and Maverick missiles in the US military inventory.