B-1 test squadron demonstrates anti-ship missile

[Major Shaitan Singh]

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 7th Munitions Squadron transport a Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) toward a B-1 Bomber June 12, 2013, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. The weapon loading was part of a trial-run for munitions Airmen prior to the first captive carry test conducted by the 337th Test and Evaluation Squadron on June 17.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Troy Drasher, 7th Maintenance Group, inspects a Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) prior to being loaded onto a B-1 Bomber June 12, 2013, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. The LRASM is based on the Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile Extended Range, but incorporates a multi-mode radio frequency sensor, a new weapon datalink and altimeter and an uprated power system. However, it has a reduced range than the JASSM-ER, similar to that of the original JASSM.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Troy Drasher (left) and Tech. Sgt. Alfred Agee both from the 7th Maintenance Group load a Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) into the bomb bay of a B-1 Bomber June 12, 2013, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Unlike current anti-ship missiles the LRASM will be capable of conducting autonomous targeting, relying on on-board targeting systems to independently acquire the target without the presence of prior, precision intelligence, or supporting services like Global Positioning Satellite navigation and data-links. These capabilities will enable positive target identification, precision engagement of moving ships and establishing of initial target cueing in extremely hostile environment