Raytheon Breaks New Ground with StormBreaker® Smart Weapon Test Completion

Raytheon's Latest Achievement: Ground-Launched StormBreaker® Test

In a notable advancement for military technology, Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX (NYSE: RTX), has successfully concluded testing a ground-launched version of its premier smart weapon, the StormBreaker®. This significant milestone was reached after a mere 50 days of development and design, demonstrating the company's agility in responding to modern warfare needs.

Testing Overview

The testing phase took place in the unforgiving terrain of the Mojave Desert during the spring of 2025. A prototype of the ground-launched StormBreaker was deployed using a commercially available rocket motor, achieving an impressive altitude of approximately 20,000 feet. This test was crucial, not only for its technical achievements but also for underscoring the necessity of modern warfare solutions in the event of GPS disruption, an increasingly relevant concern in contemporary military strategy.

Sam Deneke, President of Raytheon’s Air and Space Defense Systems, stated, “Recent global conflicts have highlighted the need for a smart, ground-launched, precision strike weapon that can perform in GPS-contested areas.” The StormBreaker system provides operational flexibility, allowing for customization according to specific mission requirements. Leveraging existing designs from the air-launched StormBreaker expedited the timeline from concept to test flight, illustrating Raytheon's commitment to innovation.

Capabilities and Innovations

The StormBreaker is distinguished as the only currently operational, network-enabled smart weapon capable of engaging both moving and stationary targets in varying weather conditions. It has received clearance for deployment on various aircraft, including the F-15E and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and is in the process of integration with the F-35A/B/C models.

This weapon system not only offers advanced targeting features but also extends the operational reach of у military engagements, providing an essential edge in both ground and aerial combat scenarios. With Raytheon's significant investments in research, development, and the acquisition of specialists in relevant fields, the company is positioning itself as a leader in the rapidly evolving defense sector.

The Road Ahead

Additional tests for the ground-launched StormBreaker are scheduled throughout 2025, ensuring that the weapon fulfills the stringent requirements set forth by military authorities. With the capability to reach out across expansive theatres of operation, this smart weapon is designed to augment the effectiveness of armed forces worldwide.

About Raytheon and RTX

Raytheon has been at the forefront of defense technology for over a century, consistently developing groundbreaking solutions in missile defense, smart weapons, and advanced surveillance systems. As the largest aerospace and defense company globally, RTX employs over 185,000 individuals dedicated to innovative technologies that redefine global security. Their mission encompasses advancing aviation and engineering integrated defense systems that support operational success in various military contexts.

In conclusion, Raytheon's achievement in testing the ground-launched variant of the StormBreaker sets a new benchmark for precision strike capabilities, ensuring enhanced readiness for the defense forces of the future. As military conflicts continue to evolve, so too must the technologies that support our national interests. The StormBreaker is poised to be at the forefront of this evolution, delivering tactical superiority in complex operational environments.