The AGM-87 Focus is a missile developed by the United States of America. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the
Overview
The missile was a development of the AIM-9B Sidewinder air-to-air missile, intended for use against ground targets. The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a heat-seeking, short-range Air-to-air missile carried by Fighter aircraft and recently certain gunship helicopters An air-to-air missile ( AAM) is a guided Missile fired from an Aircraft for the purpose of destroying another aircraft Development took place at the China Lake Naval Weapons Center during the late 1960s. Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake or NAWS China Lake is an airborne weapons testing and training range operated by the United States Navy and its contractors The infrared guidance method of the Sidewinder was retained, as the missile was to be used against targets which emitted an infrared signature. Typical targets included trucks and other such vehicles.
The Focus was used in Vietnam during 1969 and 1970, primarily for night attacks when IR emitters stand out well against the cool background. Although the missile was reportedly quite effective, it was discontinued in favour of other weapons.
Specifications
- Length : 2. 83 m (9 ft 3. 5 in)
- Finspan : 0. 56 m (1 ft 10 in)
- Diameter : 12. 7 cm (5 in)
- Weight : 70 kg (155 lb)
- Propulsion : Thiokol MK 17 MOD 3 solid-fuel rocket
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