XM1111 Mid-Range Munition
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The XM1111 Mid-Range Munition (MRM) is a developmental 120 mm precision guided munition for use by the Rheinmetall 120mm Gun (known as the "M256" in the US Military) found on several tanks of western designs. It is also intended to fulfill a requirement for Future Combat Systems for a long range, Beyond Line of Sight tank munition.
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[edit] Overview
Two contracts were awarded in a competition to validate the requirement, one for a kinetic energy penetrator round (MRM-KE) and one for a chemical energy warhead round (MRM-CE).
In December 2007, the Raytheon CE based concept was awarded the SDD contract to develop the tactical projectile.
[edit] MRM-KE
| MRM-KE | |
|---|---|
| Type | Dual use, B-LOS and LOS tank fired munition |
| Service history | |
| In service | Currently in testing |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Alliant Techsystems |
| Unit cost | unknown |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | unknown |
| Length | unknown |
| Diameter | unknown |
|
|
|
| Warhead | Long-Rod kinetic energy penetrator |
| Detonation mechanism |
none |
|
|
|
| Engine | High performance, directed rocket motor and impulse thrusters |
| Wingspan | none |
| Operational range |
12.1 km (7.5 mi) |
| Flight altitude | N/A |
| Speed | approx. 1700m/s (at launch) |
| Guidance system |
Semi-active laser and millimeter wave seeker |
| Launch platform |
M1 Abrams Mounted Combat System |
The MRM-KE (Mid-Range Munition - Kinetic Energy) is an implementation of the MRM under development by Alliant Techsystems, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems and HR Textron.[1]
[edit] Design
The missile/projectile is designed to be used as a high velocity penetrator at both line of sight, and beyond line of sight (BLOS). In line of sight, it would operate using laser guidance or a millimeter wave seeker. In BLOS, the shell would be fired in a ballistic arc, and would seek out its own targets.
The missile uses a kinetic energy penetrator to penetrate enemy armor. This effect is further enhanced by a rocket motor which propels the munition to a much higher velocity before impact. For maneuvering, the missile relies on impulse thrusters.
MRM-KE uses technology developed as part of the X-Rod and XM1007 Tank Extended Range Munition (TERM) programs, both of which have since been cancelled. [2][3]
[edit] Program status
- April 2004 - Successful test firing of the system.[4]
- May 2006 - Successful high Mach flight maneuver test at Yuma Proving Grounds.[5]
- July 2007 - ATK Forms 'Team MRM' to compete for the U.S. Army's XM1111 Mid-Range Munition Program.[1]
[edit] MRM-CE
The missile/projectile is designed to be used as a high velocity multiple mission projectile at both line of sight, and beyond line of sight (BLOS). In line of sight, it would operate using laser guidance or an uncooled imaging infrared seeker (IIR). In BLOS, the shell would be fired in a ballistic arc, and would glide to seek out its own targets.
The missile uses a multiple purpose shaped charged warhead to penetrate enemy armor. This warhead allows multiple target types to be effectively engaged.
MRM-CE refines seeker technology developed as part of the XM1007 Tank Extended Range Munition (TERM) program.
[edit] Specifications
- Warhead: Shaped charge HEAT.
- Guidance: Dual-mode Semi-active laser/imaging infrared.[6]
[edit] Program status
- September 2006 - A U.S. M-1 tank fired an MRM-CE round which hit a moving T-72 tank at a range of 8,600 meters.[7]
- March 2007 - Successful test firing using dual-mode seeker fusion.[6]
- December 2007 - Raytheon Wins Army XM-1111 Development Contract.
[edit] References
- ^ a b ATK Forms 'Team MRM' to Compete for the U.S. Army's XM1111 Mid-Range Munition Program - ATK PR
- ^ X-ROD - Global Security
- ^ XM1007 Tank Extended Range Munition (TERM) - Global Security
- ^ ATK'S MRM-KE Autonomously Searched, Guided And Hit Tank
- ^ ATK Achieves Success in MRM-KE Test - Deagel
- ^ a b MRM KE / CE 120mm - Defense Update
- ^ M-1 Gets 8,600 Meter Kill - Strategy Page
