AGM-158B separation test vehicle glided to its target during latest Rapid Dragon test flight

Another successful Rapid Dragon test flight was concluded on Nov. 6, the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory has said.

Once the Palletized Munition Deployment System was stabilized under the parachutes, the production long range cruise missile STV and mass simulants were released sequentially, timed for safe separation between munitions. The photo shows a successful separation of a STV from the sabot following the weapon release, followed by the deployment of the STV’s control surfaces (wings and tail). (Courtesy photo)

Conducted at White Sands Missile Range, a MC-130J airdropped a four-cell Rapid Dragon deployment system containing a AGM-158B separation test vehicle (STV) and three mass simulants.

The STV was able to deploy its wings and tail, achieved aerodynamic control, and began a pull-up maneuver as it glided toward its new target.

This demonstration paves the way for the first deployment of a live long range cruise missile under powered flight for the next test.

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