The US Air Force (USAF) has completed the first successful drop of the Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW) from a Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter.

An aircraft with the 40th Flight Test Sqn conducted the test on 7 November, says the USAF.

SiAW Test Drop

Source: US Air Force

When deployed SiAW will give the USAF another capability against mobile targets

Ensuring that the weapon can safely separate from the aircraft sets the stage for future tests.

A “jettison test vehicle” that carried no rocket motor or internal electronics was used in the work.

The separation test will be further analysed by engineers involved in the programme.

When operational, the SiAW missile will provide the USAF with a strike capability against targets that can be relocated rapidly, such as cruise and anti-ship missile launchers.

The SiAW is designed to fit inside the weapons bays of the Lockheed Martin F-35 and would be deployed after the aircraft penetrates enemy air defences.

The first SiAW example was delivered to the USAF in November.

Topics