US Marine Corps, L3Harris Launch First Long-Range Precision Fire in Training Range Demonstration

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The U.S. Marine Corps successfully demonstrated an L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) solution for long-range precision fires from a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) platform using an AH-1Z helicopter at Yuma Proving Grounds, Arizona. This demonstration marks the first successful engagement of a target from a VTOL platform at previously untouchable ranges.

“Assessments of current and future capability gaps of the fleet’s needs identified this long-range precision fire initiative as a cost-effective solution for use against maritime and land-based targets,” said Col. Scott Shadforth, Director, Expeditionary Maritime Aviation – Advanced Development Team, U.S. Marine Corps.

The company developed the low-cost, long-range weapon system and integrated it on the Marines’ helicopter as part of an Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering effort.

“L3Harris and the Marine Corps have established a strong partnership to develop and evaluate this new, advanced capability,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “This weapon system will help the warfighter handle increasingly sophisticated threats and avoid entering into adversary weapon engagement zones.”

L3Harris’ long-range precision fire solution can strike targets – beyond ranges that were previously achievable – and its modular open system ensures adaptability in multi-domain environments. The weapon’s design has demonstrated a capability of integrating a variety of payloads to satisfy several mission sets and has proven a greater distance range than required.