The Navy's Smart New Stealth Anti-Ship Missile Can Plan Its Own Attack
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This two-prong next generation anti-ship missile approach saw the development of the LRASM-A, the subsonic, low-flying and stealthy weapon that is still in development today. The other was the LRASM-B, a high-altitude supersonic, ramjet powered anti-ship missile, similar to the Russian Brahmos supersonic anti-ship missile. LRASM-B was cancelled in 2012 under tightening defense budgets, with DARPA focusing on the lower risk and more pressing LRASM-A concept.
LRASM is a cousin of Lockheed's stealthy JASSM cruise missile and is aiming to replace and expand the mission of both the AGM-84 aircraft-launched and RGM-84 ship-launched Harpoon. The video below depicts generally how LRASM works and some of the capabilities it brings to the table. In it you will see its most prominent feature is that it will "intelligently" sense and avoid hostile threats via an on-board passive radio frequency and threat warning receiver. Additionally, LRASM is equipped with an on-board data-link, advanced artificial intelligence software, low probability of intercept radar, imaging infrared sensor and an inertial navigation system with embedded GPS. All of this is tied to the sneaky missile's autopilot and cutting-edge computing core.
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Not only is LRASM much more survivable than Harpoon, but it also boasts double the warhead size and at least three and a half times more range. Although details are limited, LRASM is thought to have a range of at least 200 miles, but that could be extended much longer, approaching 1,000 miles, depending on the configuration and the flight profile. For instance, if its warhead were reduced in size and weight, that extra capacity could be used for more fuel. This makes this new stealthy cruise missile ideal for breaking down an enemy's naval-based anti-access capabilities from outside their sensors' ability to detect and engage the LRASM launch platform itself.
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