AH-1Z Viper demonstrates new long-range precision fire capability
The U.S. Marine Corps has taken a significant step forward in precision strike capabilities by successfully testing a new Long Range Precision Fire (LRPF) system on the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter. The test, conducted last November at Yuma Proving Grounds (YPG) in Arizona, demonstrated the Marine Corps’ ability to deploy precision weapons from aviation assets using advanced targeting and control systems.
First-Ever Tablet-Controlled Missile Launch
According to the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), the AH-1Z executed a single missile launch using a wireless application via the Marine Air-Ground Tablet (MAGTAB). This marks a historic first for the Marine Corps, as no rotary-wing platform had previously fired a weapon system controlled by a tablet device. The test exceeded key performance thresholds for position, navigation, and timing, proving the system’s effectiveness in both maritime and land-based combat scenarios.
Colonel Scott Shadforth, Director of Expeditionary Maritime Aviation – Advanced Development Team (XMA-ADT), underscored the strategic value of the LRPF capability:
“Assessments of current and future capability gaps of the fleet’s needs identified this LRPF initiative as a cost-effective, long-range precision weapon for use against maritime and land-based targets.”
Enhancing Expeditionary Warfare
The test was part of a larger initiative sponsored by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E) through the Defense Innovation Acceleration (DIA) program. Led by XMA-ADT, the project aims to evaluate cost-effective, long-range targeting solutions that will improve the Marine Corps’ operational effectiveness in both expeditionary and maritime environments.
The AH-1Z Viper, already a formidable asset in close air support and anti-armor operations, now gains a new capability with this LRPF integration. The introduction of a tablet-based fire control system like the MAGTAB enhances operational flexibility, enabling Marines to execute strikes remotely with increased situational awareness. This aligns with the Marine Corps’ broader initiative to integrate advanced networking and fire control technologies across its aviation and ground forces.
Future of Marine Corps Precision Strike Capabilities
The success of this test at YPG suggests promising potential for expanding tablet-controlled, long-range precision strike capabilities across other Marine Corps aviation platforms. As the service continues modernizing its rotary-wing fleet, the LRPF system on the AH-1Z Viper represents a crucial advancement in adapting to evolving threats and mission requirements.
Further evaluations and potential deployment of the system are anticipated as part of the Marine Corps’ continuous efforts to strengthen its expeditionary warfare capabilities. This breakthrough not only enhances the effectiveness of Marine aviation but also sets the stage for future innovations in remote and networked strike operations.
