Successful fire test of Raytheon’s Pike munition 41310153

Defence & Security News - (Raytheon)
 
Successful fire test of Raytheon’s Pike munition
Raytheon has successfully tested its new Pike 40 mm precision-guided munition, which can be fired from a standard tube grenade launcher. Two of these rounds were fired and the results have been positive, as they landed within the pre-defined area at a distance of more than 2,000 metres.
     
 
     

Pike is a digital, semi-active laser seeking 40 mm munition. It is effective against both fixed and slow-moving mid-range targets. According to Raytheon’s Advanced Land Warfare Systems director, Mr J. R. Smith, this new, guided munition can provide the warfighter with precision, extended-range capabilities, never before seen in a hand-held weapon on the battlefield.

Pike has a rocket motor, which ignites 2.5-3 metres after launch. It is nearly smokeless for reduced launch signature. It can be fired from a single-shot grenade launcher, such as the M320 or EGLM (Enhanced Grenade Launching Module). It weighs less than 900 grams and its length is 42.67 cm.

"Pike will become smarter and smarter as we continue to develop its capabilities," said Smith. "In the current configuration, the warfighter will enter programmable laser codes prior to loading Pike into its launcher. Spiral development calls for multiple-round simultaneous programming and targeting with data link capabilities."

Additional Pike upgrades include the ability to fire it from platform-mounted launchers on small boats, all-terrain vehicles and small unmanned aircraft systems.