Overview
The conventional air-launched cruise missile (CALCM) is an affordable, long-range (standoff) missile that has been proven in combat by the U.S. Air Force. It is recognized for its rapid-response capability, and it is produced by converting surplus nuclear-armed AGM-86B missiles into the AGM-86C/D missile, which is the basis for CALCMs.
Specifications
Launched from a B52H aircraft, the CALCM has the following specifications and systems:
- 1. Weight: 3,250 pounds
- 2. Dimensions (length, diameter, wing span): 21' long, 4' diameter, 12' wing span
- 3. Payload: conventional high-explosive, blast-fragmentation warhead or Advanced Unitary Penetrator
- 4. Speed: 500 mph
- 5. Engine and fuel: Williams F107-WR-101 engine and JP-10 fuel
- 6. Navigation system: global positioning system (GPS) receiver and inertial navigation system (INS)
Operation
Powered by a turbofan jet engine that propels the missile at subsonic speeds, the CALCM deploys its folded wings, tail surfaces, and engine inlet upon launch. It possesses the following operational characteristics:
- Flies complicated, low-altitude routes to a target by utilizing a terrain-contour-matching guidance system and GPS/INS
- Has a small profile that reduces the likelihood of detection by radar
- Requires an enemy force to counterattack each CALCM, which makes defense against them both costly and complicated
Conclusion
The CALCM provides commanders with a long-range (standoff range) weapon that precisely attacks an enemy's facilities. Furthermore, AGM-86D utilizes a penetrating warhead that can destroy buried or reinforced targets.
For more information, read the AGM-86C Conventional Air-Launched Cruise Missile (CALCM) overview.
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