AGM-123 Skipper
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| AGM-123 Skipper II | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Basic data | |
| Function | Rocket assisted, low-level, laser-guided bomb |
| Manufacturer | Emerson Electric |
| Entered service | IOC:1985 |
| General characteristics | |
| Engine | Aerojet MK 78 dual-thrust solid-fueled rocket |
| Launch mass | 582 kg (1,283 lb) |
| Length | 4.3 m (14 ft 1.2 in) |
| Diameter | 0.5 m (1 ft 7.6 in) |
| Wingspan | 1.6 m (5 ft 3 in) |
| Speed | Max:1,100 km/h (680 mph) |
| Range | 25 km (15.5 statute miles) |
| Warhead | 450 kg (1000 lb) MK 83 bomb |
The AGM-123 Skipper II is a missile developed by the United States of America.
[edit] Overview
The Skipper is a short range missile intended for precision strikes. It is essentially a laser guided bomb with a rocket attached to allow it to be dropped at greater distances from the target. The guidance system is a standard Paveway II laser kit, which is attached to a Mark 83 bomb. Propulsion is provided by tandem mounted Mk 78 solid propellant rockets which both fire simultaneously on launch.
The increased range of the weapon compared to a freefall bomb allowed the aircraft a degree of protection from surface to air missiles and anti aircraft artillery. The Skipper was an anti ship weapon, capable of disabling the largest vessels due to the powerful 450 kg impact fused warhead of the Mk 83 bomb. It could be carried by the A-6E Intruder, A-7 Corsair II, and F/A-18.
The AGM-123 was developed at the China Lake Naval Weapons Center.
[edit] External links
- Designation systems - Emerson Electric AGM-123 Skipper II
- Federation of American Scientists - AGM-123 Skipper II
