Raytheon MALD-Jammer Completes 1st Free-Flight Test

• Program set for critical design review, engineering and manufacturing development

(Tuccson, Ariz., January 13, 2010) -- The U.S. Air Force and Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) completed the first free-flight test of the Miniature Air Launched Decoy-Jammer. The completion of this flight test sets the stage for a critical design review in 2010 and the conclusion of Phase II risk reduction.

The MALD-J(tm) adds radar-jamming capability to the basic MALD platform. MALD is a state-of-the-art, low-cost flight vehicle that is modular, air-launched and programmable. It weighs less than 300 pounds and has a range of approximately 500 nautical miles (about 575 statute miles).


"Achieving this milestone proves MALD-J has a technology readiness level 7 and sets the stage for the system to enter engineering and manufacturing development," said Ken Watson, the U.S. Air Force's MALD program manager.

MALD-J recently completed numerous captive carry test missions and a milestone C decision - the decision to go into production - is expected in early 2011.

"The modular MALD-J gives the warfighter expendable, stand-in jamming capability," said Scott Muse, Raytheon's MALD program director. "MALD-J will eliminate or reduce the need to send aircrews into danger to conduct suppression of enemy air defense missions."

Source : Raytheon Corporation (NYSE: RTN)