Stinger missiles with proximity fuzes destroy UAVs in first-ever test

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., June 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- During a recent Army test, a pair of Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) Stinger anti-air missiles equipped with new proximity fuzes intercepted two small unmanned airborne systems—an MQM-170C Outlaw and an unidentified smaller system—for the first time. Proximity fuzes allow missiles to destroy targets by making contact or by detonating in close range.

The Stinger weapon system is a lightweight, self-contained air defense system that can be rapidly deployed by ground troops and on military platforms. It is combat proven in four major conflicts and is now deployed in more than 18 nations and with all four U.S. military services.

"Stingers are usually loaded with direct impact warheads, which is appropriate for larger targets such as cruise missiles and aircraft," said Kim Ernzen, vice president of Raytheon's Land Warfare Systems product line. "The new proximity fuze gives ground forces the ability to engage small, elusive targets using a proven, familiar system."

U.S. and coalition partners deploy Stinger in multiple configurations, including man-portable, helicopter air-to-air, and ground-based vehicle applications.

About Raytheon

Raytheon Company, with 2016 sales of $24 billion and 63,000 employees, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, civil government and cybersecurity solutions. With a history of innovation spanning 95 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration, C5ITM products and services, sensing, effects, and mission support for customers in more than 80 countries. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts. Follow us on Twitter @Raytheon.

Media ContactLorenzo Cortes+1.520.746.2156[email protected]

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SOURCE Raytheon Company