- A recent post by the Naval Air Systems Command hints at a new long-range weapon system. It features the Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, which is likely equipped with an emerging missile called the Precision Attack Strike Missile (PASM).
- The PASM aims to enhance the attack helicopter’s range against land and sea targets, which is critical for the Marines to maintain operational relevance amid rising tensions in the Pacific region.
- The Marines tested a new Long Range Precision Fire capability successfully in November at Yuma Proving Grounds, utilizing a Marine Air-Ground Tablet for the missile launch.
Full Story
A seemingly innocuous post by the Naval Air Systems Command in mid-February may provide a first look at a new long-range weapon system. The release, posted on NAVAIR News, features a Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter with the title “Successful Test of Long Range Precision Fires.” However, a closer inspection reveals that it is equipped with something new on its armament rails.
The @USMC successfully demonstrated our long-range precision fires solution from a vertical takeoff and landing platform during a recent training range exercise. Learn more: https://t.co/pR3BCQ5Dhb pic.twitter.com/9Z97TBz5CI
— L3Harris (@L3HarrisTech) February 17, 2025
While the release does not explicitly mention it, the Marines are known to be developing a new missile called the Precision Attack Strike Missile (PASM). It is designed to significantly extend the range of AH-1Zs against both land and sea targets.
This development is crucial for maintaining the relevance of these helicopters in future conflicts, particularly if tensions rise in the Pacific with China.
According to NAVAIR, the Marine Corps successfully tested this new Long Range Precision Fire capability in November 2024. The test occurred at Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona, where an AH-1Z conducted its first launch using a tablet app called the Marine Air-Ground Tablet.
The test exceeded the required standards for position, navigation and timing. Although NAVAIR did not directly reference the PASM program, this may be the first glimpse at a missile related to those efforts.