Defence Trials

AGM-142 Missile Trials

The United States Air Force (USAF) has conducted trials of the AGM-142 medium-range, electro-optically guided precision stand-off missile at the WTF using B-52 bomber aircraft (pictured with underslung missile). Inter-continental sorties initiated in the US were conducted in 1995 and 1997, with the rocket-powered missiles being launched towards a target site within the WTF. The WTF is especially well suited to stand-off weapon trials, given the large safety templates that can be accommodated, and the high security environment for classified weapons testing. Support for the AGM-142 trials was provided by ARDU.