US Navy makes smart mini missiles

The US Navy has just unveiled plans to develop smart mini missiles capable of destroying unmanned aircraft and ships.

The Daily Mail said on Jan. 16 that the generation of missiles mentioned above was fired from warships, which could change the journey on the fly. The US Navy program is referred to as MAD-FIRES for the purpose of manufacturing guided missiles .

The American Advanced Defense Research Agency (DARPA) explained that mini missiles will incorporate navigation elements, accuracy, speed, rapid fire and caliber bullets of 20-40 caliber designed to target kill light armored vehicles, aircraft and people.

According to the US Navy, they developed this missile to deal with the risk of being attacked by unmanned equipment, missiles and small aircraft.

Smart mini rockets can fire from warships.(Photo: REUTERS).

In the first phase of the MAD-FIRES project , experts will work on templates, simulate performance and reduce risks. Last year, the US military successfully tested a .50 caliber sniper bullet combined with optical viewfinder technology. This type of bullet can change the direction of flight on the way to the target.

DARPA says there are many targets that are moved in unfavorable conditions, such as high winds and dusty terrain often found in Afghanistan. This is a major challenge for current weapons technologies. Snipers often work in groups of 2 people, including 1 person to help identify goals and ensure safety for teammates.

But environmental factors such as wind, rain, and even humidity can affect the flight path of the bullet. Therefore, the .50 caliber sniper rifle type incorporates optical viewfinder technology that can improve accuracy in such adverse weather conditions.

New types of bullets help American snipers increase accuracy in adverse environmental conditions.(Photo: REUTERS).

The new system allows snipers to adjust the bullet's flight direction in case the target suddenly moves or the bullet is blown away by the wind.

Professor Ted Catchel, from the US Naval War College, commented that the sniper system is a very interesting improvement. However, he notes that it is still necessary to train traditional snipers.