Smart missiles: weapons can switch targets in flight, send back pictures.

• Author: Colucci, Frank

The Army is beginning to develop sophisticated "smart" missiles and launchers, intended to be deployed in advance of maneuver forces. Operated by remote control from miles away, these weapons would destroy enemy armored vehicles and other targets.

The project, called non-line-of-sight launch system, is one of several weapon platforms now being designed for the Future Combat Systems. The FCS is potentially a $90 billion program that aims to replace every weapon system in the Army with an integrated network of manned and unmanned vehicles.

The Army Aviation and Missile Command recently awarded a six-year $1.1 billion contract to a joint venture of Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. The companies will split the work.

Each NLOS-LS system will consist of a container launch unit, packed with missiles, which will be fired vertically. Two types of munitions will be employed: a so-called "precision-attack missile" and a "loiter-attack missile." Army officials say these missiles will be capable of identifying targets and re-directing themselves in flight, as targets move about. If die program stays on schedule, the first unit could be in operation by 2010.

According to current plans, each FCS brigade would be equipped with 60 launchers, which would make up a battalion, Within the battalion, NLOS-LS platoons will have firing batteries and a headquarters component to position the weapons on the battlefield. Once deployed, the NLOS-LS remains unattended. It will be Installed on the back of Army trucks, such as heavy wreckers, 5-ton tactical trucks or heavy Huwvees.

Once the brigade commander decides to fire, a computer launches the appropriate missile automatically without a dedicated launcher crew or operator pushing a button at the launch site.

The missiles will have automatic target recognition sensors and a two-way data-link that takes targeting updates in flight and returns imagery. With an operator in the loop, the system can be used to change targets in flight and assess battle damage.

Much of the technology, in NLOS-LS already has been demonstrated in other programs, officials note. Examples include propulsion, seeker, and communications technology developed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, under a program called "net-fires." The Air Force incorporated similar technologies in a cruise missile called the low-cost autonomous attack munition.

The Army expects to create a dedicated program office for NLOS-LS in 2005. In the meantime, a...