AGM-123 Skipper II

Infobox Weapon
is_missile=yes
name=AGM-123 Skipper II


caption=
origin=
type=Rocket assisted, low-level, laser-guided bomb
used_by=
manufacturer=Emerson Electric
unit_cost=
propellant=
production_date=
service=1985
engine=Aerojet MK 78 dual-thrust solid-fueled rocket
engine_power=
weight=582 kg (1,283 lb)
length=4.3 m (14 ft 1.2 in)
height=
diameter=0.5 m (1 ft 7.6 in)
wingspan=1.6 m (5 ft 3 in)
speed=Max:1,100 km/h (680 mph)
vehicle_range=25 km (15.5 statute miles)
ceiling=
altitude=
filling=1000 lb (450 kg) MK 83 bomb
guidance=
detonation=
launch_platform=

AGM-123 Skipper II is a short-range laser-guided missile developed by the U.S. Navy.

Overview

The Skipper is a short range missile intended for precision strikes. It is composed of a Mark 83 bomb, fitted with a Paveway kit, and an attached rocket propulsion system to allow it to be dropped at greater distances from the target. Tandem mounted Mk 78 solid propellant rockets which both fire simultaneously on launch provide propulsion.

The increased range of the weapon compared to a free-fall bomb gives the delivery aircraft a degree of protection from surface-to-air-missiles and anti-aircraft artillery in the vicinity of the target. The Skipper was intended as an anti-ship weapon, capable of disabling the largest vessels due to the powerful 1000 lb (450 kg) impact fused warhead of the Mk 83 bomb. It could be carried by the A-6E Intruder, A-7 Corsair II, and F/A-18.

The AGM-123 was developed at the China Lake Naval Weapons Center.

External links

* [http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/m-123.html Designation systems] - Emerson Electric AGM-123 Skipper II
* [http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/smart/agm-123.htm Federation of American Scientists] - AGM-123 Skipper II