BAE Systems and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems have teamed to develop, demonstrate, and produce the 81mm roll controlled guided mortar (RCGM), an affordable 81mm precision mortar round. The companies have been maturing the guided mortar technology over the last 12 months and will be conducting tactical demonstrations early in 2012.

The teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics and BAE Systems’ Munitions business, will leverage their respective strengths to provide a low-cost, highly affordable, precision mortar. The 81mm RCGM uses the current UK L41 round and US M734A1 fuze, but incorporates GPS guidance and General Dynamics’ patented roll controlled fixed canard (RCFC) technology to provide a precision strike capability.

Michael Wilson, President of General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems said, “Our teaming with BAE Systems will provide the infantry with a lightweight, portable, precision strike capability based on General Dynamics’ innovative RCGM technology. By using existing warheads and fusing with our low-cost control and guidance system, we can offer a truly affordable precision mortar round to the US, UK and allies across the world.”