UK-based BAE Systems, a global defence and aerospace systems company, has developed a precision guided bomb to enhance the multi-role combat capabilities of its fighter aircraft Eurofighter Typhoon.

The milestone was achieved when the avionics system was used to safely release the Paveway IV precision guided bomb in an hour long test flight over the Aberporth Range in Wales.

Typhoon test pilot Nat Makepeace, who was at the controls of development aircraft IPA6, said: “This was a successful test flight demonstrating the avionics system is able to use global positioning system (GPS) data and target information sourced from the aircraft to prepare for the release.  All communication with the aircraft and safe release of the bomb went to plan.”

Paveway IV is a highly accurate, precision guided bomb capable of significantly minimising collateral damage, a statement said.

It is low cost and will provide Typhoon pilots with the very best technology for operations with its all-weather, day and night precision capability, it added.

The test is part of an ongoing programme to integrate Paveway IV onto the aircraft and builds on the environmental and jettison trials which have already been performed.

Paveway IV is expected to be provided to the UK Ministry of Defence early in 2012 when the RAF will start operational evaluation, according to the statement. – TradeArabia News Service