5" 62 Munition, Part 2

We see this as a great sign for naval fire support.

BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin are teaming to develop long-range guided munitions for the U.S. Navy. The new 5-inch, precision-guided Extended Range Munition (ERM) will address the current void in affordable and reliable long-range naval surface fire support.

The 5-inch ERM builds on BAE Systems/Lockheed Martin’s success with the Navy’s 155-mm Long-Range Land Attack Projectile (LRLAP) program. The LRLAP has the capability to precisely engage targets at ranges in excess of 72 nautical miles, delivering lethal force in support of military operations ashore with minimal collateral damage. Much of the proven technology used with the LRLAP program is being applied to the 5-inch ERM program.

If you recall, earlier this year the Navy dropped the ERGM Raytheon was developing, mostly because it was too expensive and it didn't work. The only current competitor in the market we are aware of is Alliant Techsystems, which is developing a ballistic trajectory extended-range munition (BTERM). The BTERM has had some problems though.

If the new ERM is like the canceled ERGM, it will only be available for the 5" 62 caliber gun fielded on DDG 81 and forward. Something to keep an eye on for the DDG-51 modernization. BAE has a solid reputation with the LRLAP. Hopefully BAE and Lockheed Martin will be able to capitalize on that success for the ERM.