Journalists managed to capture the moment when a new AGM-181A Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) missile was spotted on a B-52H Stratofortress aircraft. This is a rare occurrence, as such projects are usually very secretive. This was reported by The Aviationist in an article for 'Globes'.
The aircraft was spotted flying low over California with the missile on an external pylon. Orange stripes on the wings were also noticeable, indicating the testing of new weapons.
New nuclear cruise missile AGM-181A
According to Defense News, this could be a step by the Pentagon to demonstrate the potential capabilities of the new LRSO missile. The AGM-181A missile was developed by Raytheon to replace the outdated AGM-86B. It can be installed on B-52H Stratofortress and B-21 Raider aircraft.
The AGM-181A missile can fly undetected by enemy radars, maneuvering around the terrain. It has a range of 2400 km, and its warhead can have a yield of 5 to 150 kilotons. This is significantly more than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
The B-52H Stratofortress bomber with the new AGM-181A LRSO missile was seen in the USA. The missile was designed to replace outdated armament and has greater capabilities, including a significantly larger warhead. The installation of the AGM-181A on aircraft will allow the Pentagon to enhance defense capabilities and maintain a competitive edge in the military sphere.