In a joint press release , Thales and Leonardo announced the first successful launch of an LMM (Lightweight Multirole Missile) missile from an AW159 Wildcat helicopter. Developed by Thales, the LMM is a versatile light missile developed for the British armed forces. In the Royal Navy, it has already been tested for sea-to-sea fire from frigates, but this is the first time that the new missile (designated Martlet in the Royal Navy) has fired from a Wildcat helicopter.
For the occasion, the helicopter designed by the British branch of the Italian Leonardo (formerly Westland) has been equipped with its new weapon supports, the Leonardo Weapon Wing. Developed to provide additional lift to the helicopter, the Weapon Wings allow the Wildcat to carry heavy armament with minimal impact on the range, speed and payload of the aircraft.
The rest of this article is for subscribers only
Full-access articles are available in the “ Free Items“. Subscribers have access to the full Analyses, OSINT and Synthesis articles. Articles in the Archives (more than 2 years old) are reserved for Premium subscribers.
From €6,50 per month – No time commitment.
