Raytheon fired two Excalibur precision-strike artillery projectiles equipped with low-cost titanium (Ti) bases at the maximum charge level possible Aug. 7 as part of design testing for the new projectile.

Modular Artillery Charge System-5 is the maximum charge level for U.S. Paladin and M777 howitzers. Projectiles must be fired at this charge level to achieve their longest range. At MACS-5, Excalibur reached a range exceeding 40 kilometers (more than 24 statute miles) using U.S. artillery systems.

"When the commander needs cannon artillery, the Excalibur can achieve precision with discrimination at ranges we have not seen in the past," said Kevin Byrnes, vice president of Raytheon's Army programs. "This is a game-changer for soldiers deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan who fire Excalibur in combat operations."

The new Excalibur design uses fewer parts and requires simpler manufacturing, resulting in lower costs and increased reliability.

"The additional range achieved with MACS-5 will give more flexibility to maneuver commanders," said Steve Bennett, director of Raytheon's Excalibur program. "Success at the highest charge level is critical to meeting the warfighter's needs."