Lockheed Martin tests Grizzly containerized launcher with successful Hellfire live-fire and vertical launch demonstrations

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

Lockheed Martin has completed its first integrated live-fire and vertical-launch tests of the Hellfire missile using its Grizzly containerized launcher. The tests demonstrated the system’s ability to load and launch a missile from a standard 10-foot Tricon container.
Photo: Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin has completed its first integrated live-fire and vertical-launch tests of the Hellfire missile using its Grizzly containerized launcher. The tests demonstrated the system’s ability to load and launch a missile from a standard 10-foot Tricon container.

 

The Grizzly launcher was developed in six months using existing weapon and launcher architectures, including the fielded M299 system. The company said the system is designed to provide a cost-efficient, mobile and low-observable capability for distributed expeditionary operations.

During testing, the launcher successfully met all requirements and validated real-time missile trajectory performance. Lockheed Martin said it will continue working with the U.S. government to refine the system’s development based on test data.



The system incorporates commercial off-the-shelf materials to reduce logistics demands and acquisition costs. By leveraging proven technologies, the launcher is intended to shorten procurement timelines while minimizing operational footprint.

Lockheed Martin said Grizzly is designed to be highly transportable and adaptable across missions. Its architecture allows integration with different command, control and sensor systems, supporting a wide range of operational scenarios.

The company added that data collected during testing will support ongoing improvements and rapid updates to the system. The development approach is intended to align with evolving operational requirements and customer needs.



“This is an example of how our Lockheed Martin team is leading innovation for our customers’ needs,” said Randy Crites, vice president of Advanced Programs at Lockheed Martin.

“Our first live fire tests come just six months after the program began research and development, through internal Lockheed Martin investment, demonstrating our focus on quickly delivering a mobile and versatile launcher capability to defeat evolving threats.”

“Grizzly provides the customer versatility and flexibility for their needs, as well as an element of mobility and discreteness for offensive and defensive fires,” Crites added.

 

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