Lockheed Martin Unveils Next-Gen Paragon™ Precision Strike Weapon
ARCHBALD, Pa., March 2, 2017 — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has unveiled its latest innovation: the Dual Mode Plus laser-guided bomb (LGB), now branded as Paragon. This state-of-the-art direct attack munition offers an affordable and effective alternative to existing dual-mode weaponry.
“The introduction of the Paragon brand represents a milestone of excellence, showcasing the system’s impressive performance and capabilities,” stated Joe Serra, Director of Precision Guided Systems at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “Paragon has proven its ability to meet operational requirements while ensuring safe release at greater distances from the target compared to other dual-mode or GPS-guided munitions.”
Paragon harnesses the reliability and cost-effectiveness of Lockheed Martin’s battle-tested LGB, incorporating an inertial navigation system (INS) and GPS for all-weather, moving-target engagement. This elevates mission flexibility, extends standoff distances, and assures dependable performance.
“Our efficient manufacturing processes allow us to provide Paragon as a cost-effective solution, enhancing defense budgets across the board,” Serra remarked. “This increased capability at a competitive price benefits our customers by fostering competition in performance-driven acquisitions.”
Paragon has already been successfully integrated onto the F/A-18 aircraft, with additional flight tests for the F/A-18 ongoing, and plans to test on the F-16 set for the second quarter of 2017.
Designed to engage fixed, relocatable, and moving targets, Paragon maintains the established dimensions and mass properties of Lockheed Martin’s proven LGB. It integrates effortlessly with aircraft equipped to use LGBs or similar conventional direct-attack munitions via MIL-STD-1760/1553 or Universal Armament Interfaces.
Lockheed Martin stands as a qualified supplier of all three Paveway™ II MK-80 series LGB variants (GBU-10/MK-84 [2,000 lb.], GBU-12/MK-82 [500 lb.], and GBU-16/MK-83 [1,000 lb.]). Additionally, Lockheed Martin is the exclusive provider of the Enhanced Laser Guided Training Round and DMLGB, having supplied over 150,000 training rounds, more than 75,000 Paveway II LGB kits, and 7,000 dual-mode systems to the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and 23 international clients.
