Raytheon developing new medium-range missile

Raytheon Company officials said the defense, civil government and cybersecurity solutions firm is developing a new medium-range, air-launched weapon to combat drones, manned aircraft, and cruise missiles.

The Peregrine missile is half the size and cost of current air-to-air missiles while delivering greater range and effect.

“Peregrine will allow U.S. and allied fighter pilots to carry more missiles into battle to maintain air dominance,” Thomas Bussing, Raytheon Advanced Missile Systems vice president, said. “With its advanced sensor, guidance and propulsion systems packed into a much smaller airframe, this new weapon represents a significant leap forward in air-to-air missile development.”

The Peregrine is expected to strengthen the capabilities of current fighter aircraft, officials said, noting it would possess more maneuverable than legacy medium-range, air-to-air missiles while doubling the weapons loadout on a variety of fighter platforms.

The Peregrine’s sophisticated, miniaturized guidance system can detect and track targets at any time of day in any weather condition. Developers said the missile benefits from military off-the-shelf components, additive manufacturing processes and readily available materials to offer an affordable solution for countering current and emerging airborne threats.

Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, Raytheon officials said the company provides mission systems integration, C5I products and services, sensing, effects and mission support for customers in more than 80 countries.