Lockheed Martin unveiled a new Mako hypersonic missile designed for use on a variety of American fighter aircraft. The missile has high speed, maneuverability and versatility.
Mako Hypersonic Missile
Performance and Compatibility
Lockheed Martin shared information about its new development - the Mako hypersonic missile. The project, which has been worked on for seven years, has finally taken on concrete shape.
The rocket has impressive dimensions: length is 3.6 meters, diameter - 33 centimeter, and weight - 590 kilograms. Thanks to its size, the Mako easily integrates into the internal compartments of fifth-generation fighter jets such as the F-35 and F-22. It is noteworthy that the F-35 is capable of carrying up to six such missiles simultaneously.
Testing and compatibility with various platforms
- Compatibility testing with F-fighters successfully completed 16, F-18, F-15, as well as with P-8 Poseidon patrol aircraft. In addition, the missile can also be used by bombers.
Technical Features
The Mako is equipped with a solid propellant engine, allowing it to reach speeds of up to Mach 5. At this speed, the rocket retains the ability to maneuver at significant altitudes. Lockheed Martin has not yet disclosed additional details about flight characteristics.
Modularity and innovation in manufacturing
The modular design of the Mako allows the 60-kilogram warhead to be replaced with alternative charges, as well as to modify the navigation system. The open digital architecture simplifies the integration of new modules. To optimize production, the company used components from existing systems. 3D printing is widely used, in particular for the production of warhead fairing and other surfaces.
Versatility
Mako demonstrates exceptional versatility: the missile is capable of hitting ground and sea targets, and can also be used against air targets as part of air defense systems.
Glossary
- Lockheed Martin is an American company specializing in aerospace engineering and advanced technologies
- Mako - new hypersonic missile developed by Lockheed Martin
- F-35 - fifth generation multi-role fighter
- F-22 - fifth generation fighter of the US Air Force
- P-8 Poseidon - anti-submarine patrol aircraft
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Discussion of the topic – Mako: Supersonic missile for F-16 and next generation fighters
Lockheed Martin presented the Mako hypersonic missile, adapted for 4th and 5th generation fighters. The missile, weighing 590 kg and 3.6 m long, took 7 years to develop and can be integrated into the internal compartments of the F-35 and F-22.
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Marco
Wow, that Mako rocket sounds impressive! 🚀 I wonder how it will affect the balance of power in the world. Does anyone know if other countries have something similar?
Amelie
Marco, I heard that Russia and China are also working on hypersonic weapons. But Mako looks very advanced. I was impressed by its versatility and ability to integrate with different platforms.
Hans
I agree with Amelie, versatility is key. Imagine how this will simplify logistics and training. And using 3D printing is just brilliant for reducing costs! 💡
Isabella
What struck me most was the speed - Mach 5! 😮 And at the same time she can maneuver. Hans, how difficult do you think it will be to defend against such a missile?
Grzegorz
Ha, another toy for the military. Why do we need all this? It would be better to spend the money on something useful. All these new technologies only make life more difficult and create new problems.
Hans
Isabella, defending against such a missile will be a serious challenge. Grzegorz, I understand your skepticism, but dual-use technologies often bring benefits in the civilian sphere. For example, the same 3D printing.
Olena
Guys, have you noticed that Mako weighs only 590 kg? This is incredibly easy for such a powerful rocket! 🤯 I wonder how they managed to achieve such a power to weight ratio.
Marco
Olena, good question! Probably it’s a matter of modern materials and design optimization. Hans is right about dual-use technologies. Who knows, maybe these developments will help create more efficient civil aircraft? ✈️