48.97 (+0.42) - Strategic Markets
- Mission Systems Integration
- Products & Programmes
- Air Traffic Mgmt Systems
- ASTOR & Global ISR
- Command & Control
- Defence Targeting Toolset
- Defence Training Rationalisation
- Global Training Solutions
- Mission Support & Services
- Missile Systems
- Other Weapons
- Paveway IV
- Platform Integration
- National Security & ICIM
- Naval Integration
- Navigation Systems
- Power and Control Electronics
- Semiconductors
- Software Design
Paveway IV
Paveway IV Precision Guided Bomb
In 2003 Raytheon Systems Limited (RSL) was awarded a contract by the UK MoD to supply Paveway IV to meet the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy's requirement for a new Precision Guided Bomb (PGB). Paveway IV features dual-mode guidance and is the latest generation of the Paveway family. For extreme accuracy in all operational scenarios it utilises second-generation, state-of-the-art GPS aided inertial navigation that incorporates anti-spoofing and anti-jamming technology. It also incorporates a laser-guidance system and the pilot is able to switch between modes as necessary, even after release. This gives maximum flexibility to attack re-locatable and moving targets as well as fixed targets.
The weapon has evolved from Enhanced Paveway, which the RAF has already fielded operationally. Paveway IV will be fitted to Enhanced mk82 500lb warheads which, along with improved accuracy, reduces still further the possibility of collateral damage. The Paveway IV guidance kits can also be modified to fit other sized warheads.
Its stand-off range is significantly greater than any other precision guided bomb. Paveway IV's unique manoeuvrability means that, if necessary, following launch it can turn and attack a target behind the delivery aircraft. The availability of dual-mode laser/GPS guidance within a single weapon also means that air forces do not have to incur the expense of maintaining two separate (laser and GPS) weapon stockpiles.
Paveway IV provides a state-of-the-art, all-weather precision munition that is easy to integrate on current and future aircraft. It is a joint programme between RSL in the UK and Raytheon Missile Systems (RMS) in Tucson, Arizona. RSL in Harlow is the Weapon Design Authority, providing Systems Engineering, Programme Management and Aircraft Integration, and the RSL Glenrothes plant manufactures the GAINS (GPS Aided Inertial Navigation System), and RMS in Tucson is the DA for the Warhead and ECCG (Enhanced Computer Control Group) and undertakes final assembly and test of the ECCG. Raytheon's UK Paveway Team also includes Portsmouth Aviation Limited (Air Foil Group and Navalised containers) and EDO MBM Technology in Brighton (Aircraft Umbilical Interconnect System and Quad Containers). Thales Missile Electronics Ltd in Basingstoke has developed and now manufactures the PGB Fuze, a state-of-the-art ‘intelligent' fuze with full cockpit interface.
Spiral development options for Paveway IV, primarily for satisfying the UK MOD requirements for Selective Precision Effects At Range (SPEAR), include the provision of a wing kit that will more than double the range of the weapon, alternative warhead variants for low yield and high penetration, high moving target engagement capability, a datalink for post release weapon communications, enhanced GPS anti-jam and improved target selectivity/autonomy.
Paveway IV entered Service with the UK RAF on Harrier GR9/9A in November 2008 and will do so on Tornado GR4 in mid-2009. Further contracts are in place for integration on Typhoon and the Joint Strike Fighter. Paveway IV is combat proven and the precision guided weapon of choice for the UK RAF. A number of overseas customers are now actively looking at acquiring this world class product.
Paveway IV will enter service in 2007.