Arnold Defense said Monday the company has received its first order for the FLETCHER land-based version of its laser-guided rocket launcher.
The new capability allows 2.75-inch precision laser-guided rockets, built by
BAE Systems, to be launched from ground-based stations or vehicles on a launcher that was previously designed for use on fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.
Officials did not disclose the name of the first customer to purchase the land-based FLETCHER launcher.
“Given that the FLETCHER concept was unveiled to the public only 18 months ago, Arnold Defense is delighted to have signed what we anticipate to be the first of many contracts for the supremely capable FLETCHER surface-based rocket launcher,” Mike Brown, vice president of Arnold Defense, said in a statement. “FLETCHER has generated huge interest globally with its unique capability to deliver organic, long-range precision firepower to even the smallest tactical element. It is great to see serious international interest now developing into firm orders.”
Arnold Defense said the deal includes an initial delivery of launchers, with follow-on orders expected following user trials and demonstrations.
FLETCHER leverages the company’s existing guidance modules, rockets and warheads from its aircraft-based launchers.
“Arnold’s evolution has FLETCHER using advanced rocket-guidance technology to utilize ground-based launch platforms, meeting the demands of modern, vehicle-mounted and dismounted asymmetric warfare,” officials wrote in a statement.