Raytheon tests new propulsion system for TOW missile

TUCSON, Ariz., Feb. 29, 2012. Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) tested a new propulsion system for the Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wireless (TOW) missile. Developed by ATK (NYSE: ATK), the enhanced system doubles TOW's range and reduces the missile's flight time by one-third.

During the test, the developmental propulsion system flew the missile more 4 miles and reached 2.5 miles in less time than the previous propulsion system.

Raytheon and ATK's Missile Products Group worked closely to develop a propulsion system for the TOW missile. The launch, boost, sustain (LBS) propulsion system also incorporates a rocket motor designed with Insensitive Munitions (IM) features to provide added safety: IM compliant systems are less likely to react explosively when subjected to bullet and fragment impacts, external fire or other hazardous events.

The TOW system has been employed by U.S. forces in every conflict since Vietnam and continues to be used today in Afghanistan. It is a command line-of-sight system that requires the gunner to track the target until the missile impacts.

The TOW weapon system, with the TOW 2A, TOW 2B, TOW 2B Aero and TOW Bunker Buster missiles, is a long-range, precision anti-armor, anti-fortification and anti-amphibious landing weapon system. TOW is in service in more than 40 international armed forces worldwide.