General Dynamics [GD] Ordnance and Tactical Systems and BAE Systems yesterday said they have teamed to develop, demonstrate and produce the 81mm Roll Controlled Guided Mortar (RCGM), an affordable 81mm precision mortar round.
The companies have been maturing the guided mortar technology over the last 12 months and will be conducting tactical demonstrations early in 2012.
The teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems and BAE Systems’ Munitions business, will leverage their respective strengths to provide a low-cost, highly affordable, precision mortar.
The 81mm RCGM uses the current U.K. L41 round and U.S. M734A1 fuze, but incorporates GPS guidance and General Dynamics’ patented Roll Controlled Fixed Canard (RCFC) technology to provide a precision strike capability.
“RCGM will put, for the first time, a low-cost indirect precision system into the hands of the front-line soldier, dramatically increasing his combat effectiveness,” said Ian Anderton, managing director of BAE Systems’ Munitions business. “The system’s increased accuracy will help bring effective fire on target quicker and the reduced number of rounds required for a typical mission will mean an approximate 30 percent reduction in logistics demands–an important consideration at the end of extended supply lines in theater.”
Michael Wilson, president of General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, said, “Our teaming with BAE Systems will provide the infantry with a lightweight, portable, precision strike capability based on General Dynamics’ innovative Roll Control Guided Mortar technology. By using existing warheads and fuzing with our low-cost control and guidance system, we can offer a truly affordable precision mortar round to the U.S., U.K. and allies across the world.”