Raytheon began developmental testing of the U.S. Air Force's newest variant of the laser-guided Maverick missile, the AGM-65E2. The laser-guided Maverick missile is a direct-attack, air-to-ground precision munition used extensively by the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps in current combat operations.

The AGM-65E2 employs the latest in digital semi-active laser sensor technology, which reduces the risk of collateral damage and enables aircraft to use onboard lasers to designate a target.

"The newest variant of the laser-guided Maverick is perfectly suited for urban combat and high-speed maneuvering targets," said Harry Schulte, vice president of Air Warfare Systems.

"Because of its accuracy and standoff range, the U.S. warfighter and our international partners can use this weapon against a variety of targets."

The AGM-65 Maverick family of precision-attack missiles is used by the air, naval and marine forces of 33 countries. More than 69,000 missiles have been produced to date, and more than 6,000 have been used in combat with a 93 percent success rate.

"Raytheon's developmental testing program will ensure the latest Maverick missile provides the warfighter with the ideal, near-term solution for urban close-air support," said Darryl Kreitman, Raytheon's Maverick missile program director. "The combat-proven Maverick is integrated on more than 25 aircraft and offers a best-value solution for the warfighter who needs a direct-attack weapon."