With refined aerodynamics and onboard systems, the new Razer prototype performed admirably during the trials at the commercial test facility in Cloncurry, Queensland. The outcome represents a major milestone and highlights the cutting-edge engineering being achieved under the project’s fast-tracked development.
Razer has a modular design and, with its wing/body kit and tail unit, will transform a 40-50kg 155mm unguided artillery munition into a precision air-launched projectile.
The trials involved an inert Razer flight vehicle detaching from a helicopter and gliding to a ground target. This allowed the team to collect crucial data on aerodynamics, avionics, navigation and other systems that will help moving forward into the next phase of the project.
Program Manager – Future Guided Weapons Products Leon MacLaren said his team is taking an approach on the Razer program never before attempted by a BAE Systems Australia team.
“Razer has progressed at a breakneck speed and these flight trials were the accumulation of many months of hard work. We’re all incredibly proud of the team and the accomplishment,” said Mr MacLaren.
Under development since its announcement at the Avalon Airshow in March 2023, the Razer program is breaking new ground. Its first flight trials occurred a short nine months later and provided critical insights for the team. This led to a more robust and advanced design in the new prototype for the recent round of flight trials.
“Razer is innovative because it’s a multi-purpose system that will cater for a variety of light munitions in different sizes and masses,” said Mr MacLaren.
“Defence forces will be able to take an available unguided munition and configure it with Razer to increase capability. This means the munition can go a lot further, hit a target more accurately and better protect service people by taking them out of harm’s way.”
BAE Systems has a long history with guided weapons in Australia and the project is helping to establish the next generation of experts in missiles and munitions.
Mr MacLaren said, “Razer is advancing every day and the team is incredible.”
“They approach each challenge with an outside-the-box solution and have become a really tightknit group who were forged under pressure.”
The Razer LCPGM is among several internally funded BAE Systems Australia product development programs. These programs are creating capabilities that will reshape the battlefield.
