We thought we were clever when we used the headline “Jassm Spasms” the last time the Lockheed Martin stealthy cruise missile ran into problems. Now, we are wondering how to top that headline.
With all the rhetoric from the Pentagon on concerns of GPS jamming for precision-guided munitions, it seems three recent tests proved Jassm is apparently not in need of such sophisticated countermeasures. Three of the missiles – one each from Lots 2-4 – experienced a GPS dropout problem, which resulted in the missiles hitting up to 200 ft. from their intended targets and proving ineffective at inflicting damage on the intended targets.
A fourth test involved a missile from Lot 1. That one got to its target, but apparently was a dud – a fuze arming problem occurred. This missile did not achieve high-order detonation.
And, these disappointing results couldn’t have come at a more critical time for Jassm. After reporting another major cost overrun for the $5.8 billion program in April, the Defense Dept. is now conducting a mandatory review to see if other options would allow program termination. Jassm –- with the might of Lockheed Martin’s lobbying machine behind it -- has, squeaked through rough spots before.
--Amy Butler
Lockheed Martin photo
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