"Navy Tests ‘Smart’ Helicopter Rocket Launchers" Topic

"The U.S. Navy has begun testing "smart" rocket launchers aboard MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, officials said.

The San Diego-based Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 15 is evaluating 22 of the new digital rocket launchers, which were delivered last month as part of a two-year rapid deployment program, according to Capt. Al Mousseau, who manages the service's Direct and Time Sensitive Program Office.

"There's a lot of opportunity here," Mousseau said on Wednesday during a presentation at the Navy League's Sea-Air-Space conference in National Harbor, Md. The service plans to integrate another 30 systems onto MH-60S choppers over the next year, he said…"
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Amicalement
Armand

So? They are taking a cheap to build and use short range "rocket" pod and turning it into a costly short range "missile" system. Thus destroying the whole point of this area effect weapon in the first place…….. I don't understand why don't they just mound a computer aimed M19 40mm on the choppers? Yea I know that would have taken money away from the companies building this boondoggle.

Really this is a totally DUMB idea.

Have to disagree, in principle it is a very good idea. a laser guided rocket is going to be more accurate then a computer aimed GL and the rocket is more then capable of taking out the light vehicles often encountered today.

They're putting a laser seeker onto the nose of existing Hydra 70mm rockets. Means you only need to fire ONE rocket at the target instead of 14+ to get a hit.

Lets your rocket packs go farther. Oh, and that seeker head is compatible with ALL the different warhead types, including the flechette packs. Imagine a shotgun shell 2 3/4" in diameter and about 3 feet long. Put the laser in the center of where you want 'nailed', and let fly.