The second test of the U.S. Air Force’s AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) hypersonic missile is deemed a failure.
The Air Force tested the missile from a B-52H Stratofortress strategic bomber in Point Mugu training ground near California on July 28. The Edwards-based 419th Flight Test Squadron and the Global Power Bomber Combined Test Force were involved in the testing.
In a statement, the service said it did not meet all flight objectives.
Objectives for the test included demonstrating the safe release of the booster test vehicle from the B 52H and assessing booster performance. An Edwards AFB B-52 released the ARRW test missile, dubbed Booster Test Vehicle 1b or BTV-1b, over Point Mugu Sea Range.
The missile cleanly separated from the aircraft and successfully demonstrated the full release sequence including GPS acquisition, umbilical disconnect and power transfer from the aircraft to the missile. The missile also demonstrated fin operation and de-confliction manoeuvres which ensures a safe operation for the aircrew.
Following the safe separation manoeuvres, the rocket motor did not ignite.