Raytheon will develop an airborne launcher designed to employ radio frequency-guided TOW (tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided) missiles. The new TOW airborne launcher will be compatible with past, present and future versions of the TOW missile.

The TOW weapon system features a family of multimission missiles fired from a variety of ground and helicopter platforms.

"The ability to launch a TOW missile from a helicopter is a significant advantage for the warfighter," said Dave Cain, Raytheon's TOW program director.

"It allows pursuit of our adversaries into hard-to-reach areas such as mountains. Once located, targets can be engaged at a safe distance and from a variety of vantage points."

The missiles provide soldiers with a heavy-assault, precision capability at long ranges. Future versions under consideration include missiles with improved insensitive munitions compliance, reduced time to target and increased range.

The new TOW airborne system will be integrated into Northrop Grumman Corporation's proven suite of glass cockpit upgrades.

"The upgrade package with the TOW launcher will initially be available to Cobra helicopter users," said Ike Song, vice president of Situational Awareness Systems for Northrop Grumman's Woodland Hills, Calif.-based Navigation Systems division.

"Because TOW is the guided missile system of choice for many airborne users, an integrated and modernized TOW fire control system will complement our state-of-the-art integrated avionics by offering an enhanced heavy assault capability."