A Boeing and Nammo team test-fired a Ramjet 155 munition from a 58-caliber Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA), which they said set a record for longest indirect fire test of a ramjet-powered artillery projectile.
While the range was not disclosed, Boeing has previously said the round should be able to strike targets over 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) away.
Nammo has gone even further, claiming that even a 150-kilometer (93-mile) range is possible, depending upon the platform.
It follows the round’s test fire from a 39-caliber towed cannon last year, which clocked its longest-ever indirect fire test at the time.
Tested With Extended Range Cannon
“Our objective was to demonstrate the ability to safely operate from the ERCA system and validate our performance. Both objectives were met,” executive director of Boeing Phantom Works Gil Griffin said.
“The team is working to deliver a superior, affordable precision strike weapon that can neutralize critical targets at long distances.”
Ramjet 155
Ramjet 155 is being developed under the US Army’s XM1155 program.
It “utilizes an air-breathing engine design that uses the cannon firing to provide the speed needed for combustion,” according to Boeing.
Future Tests
The shell will next be integrated with a precision guidance system and tested for maturity and effectiveness against stationary and moving targets.
The demonstration will also reveal its readiness to transition into the next development phase.
“This program now has a thoroughly tested propulsion system that guarantees enormous range increases for all artillery cannons,” Nammo CEO Morten Brandtzæg said.
“We believe the major development hurdles have now been cleared and production is viable within a relatively short time frame.”
