YUMA PROVING GROUND, Ariz., April 4,
2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN)
successfully tested a new electric gun for the Phalanx® Close-In
Weapon System. The upgrade allows soldiers and sailors to fire at
varying rates, which uses less ammunition.
Phalanx is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled radar and 20 mm gun
system that automatically acquires, tracks and destroys enemy
threats that have penetrated all other ship defense systems. More
than 890 systems have been built and deployed in navies around the
world.
The goal of the live-fire test was to ensure the electric gun
can operate despite the heavy vibrations that occur when Phalanx is
fired. The new design replaces a pneumatic motor, compressor and
storage tanks, reducing the system's weight by 180 pounds. These
changes also increase reliability and reduce operating costs.
"Phalanx is a weapon of last resort and the electric gun's
larger magazine will allow the U.S. and its allies to stay in the
fight longer," said Rick McDonnell,
director of Raytheon's Close-In Defense Solutions program."
This Raytheon-funded test is one part of a series of "tech
refresh" projects for Phalanx.
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
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Media Contact
Tara Wood
+1.520.247.5630
rmspr@raytheon.com
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SOURCE Raytheon Company