Fixing a key missile

A key air-to-air missile is in trouble because of a problem with a component. But a fix is being worked for Raytheon's Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). Some of the solid-fuel rocket motors have failed tests at temperatures of minus 65 degrees, a high altitude temperature. Motor-maker ATK is working the problem, but a supplier from Norway, NAMMO, is providing an alternate motor. Col. Jason Denney, manager of the AMRAAM program at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., said the importance of the AMRAAM can hardly be overstated. With its fire-and-forget, "beyond visual range" capability, the AMRAAM is the main air-superiority weapon for the U.S. Air Force, Navy and 35 allied nations. Tests will have to be conducted on the fixes and the new motors. (Source: Arizona Daily Star, 09/16/12) Eglin Air Force Base is where Air Force aerial weapons are developed and tested.