Lockheed Martin disclosed some features of the hypersonic missile Mako and has adapted it for most American fighter jets. The development of Mako took the company 7 years.
The missile, measuring 3.6 meters in length and 33 cm in diameter, weighs 590 kg. These dimensions allow it to be integrated into the internal compartments of 5th generation fighters (F-35, F-22). The F-35 can carry up to six missiles.
- Prototypes have been successfully tested for compatibility with the F-16, as well as with the F-18, F-15, and patrol aircraft like the P-8 Poseidon. The missile can also be carried by bombers.
The Mako features a solid-fuel engine that enables it to reach speeds of up to 5 Mach. At this speed, the missile can maneuver at high altitudes. So far, these are all the flight characteristics disclosed by Lockheed Martin.
The modular design allows for the replacement of a 60 kg warhead with another type of payload and the swapping of navigation systems. An open digital architecture simplifies the process of integrating new modules into the Mako. To reduce time and costs associated with missile assembly, the company utilized components from existing systems. Additionally, 3D printing is extensively used in its construction: it was employed to manufacture the warhead's fairing and other surfaces.
The missile is completely versatile: it is designed to target ground and maritime objectives, and it can also be used against aerial threats as part of a defense system.
Sources: Lockheed Martin, "Militarnyi"
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