“The
addition of the Digital ITER to our AV-8s in theater really up-guns
the capability of that jet allowing it to carry a lot more precision
ordnance,” said Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Jon M. Davis, Deputy Commandant
for Aviation. “This wouldn't have been possible without the NAVAIR
team's steadfast support.”
In December, Marines in theater requested accelerated delivery of assets
in order to maximize current mission capability. The production units
were originally scheduled for delivery in June.
NAVAIR’s Precision Strike Weapons (PMA-201) program office, specifically
its Aircraft Armament Equipment (AAE) team and AV-8B Weapon Systems
program office (PMA-257) class desk developed a plan to deliver four
flight-test units to meet the Marines’ needs. These units were
previously used in the test and evaluation of the rack prior to production
contract award.
Delivery of these units required further evaluation to ensure fleet
operational readiness. The NAVAIR team executed all required testing
and documentation necessary for delivery in one month.
During its first mission, the rack performed as designed. The aircraft
deployed four Laser JDAMs from two DITERs.
Soon, Harriers with DITER will be capable of carrying three JDAMs on
each rack depending on the mission requirement and armament configuration.
“The Marines are anxiously awaiting the delivery of their BRU-70/A
DITER in June,” said Navy Capt. Jaime Engdahl, PMA-201 program
manager. “This urgent requirement with the use of the Laser JDAM
is unprecedented capability for the Harrier community.”
The DITER provides Harriers with a smart weapon triple-carriage and
employment capability, while retaining the legacy stores interface,
prolonging and expanding the aircraft’s mission.
The upgraded carriage and release technology will replace the existing
BRU-42 system. The Harrier’s current weapon load-out configuration
allows the aircraft to carry a maximum of two Laser Joint Direct Attack
Munitions (JDAM). The addition of the DITER expands the aircraft’s
ability to carry six, increasing mission effectiveness. |