Hellfire

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

The AGM-114 Hellfire is a multi-platform, multi-target, precision-strike air-to-ground missile (AGM) system developed by the United States, primarily for anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) roles. Employing guidance systems like semi-active laser homing (SALH) and millimeter-wave (MMW) radar, it is launched from rotary-wing aircraft (AH-64 Apache), unmanned aerial vehicles (MQ-9 Reaper), and ground platforms against armored fighting vehicles and structures.

BACKGROUND

The AGM-114 Hellfire is an American missile developed for anti-armor use, later developed for precision drone strikes against other target types, especially high-value targets. It was originally developed under the name "Heliborne laser, fire-and-forget missile", which led to the colloquial name "Hellfire" ultimately becoming the missile's formal name. It has a multi-mission, multi-target precision-strike ability and can be launched from multiple air, sea, and ground platforms, including the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper. The Hellfire missile is the primary 100-pound (45 kg) class air-to-ground precision weapon for the armed forces of the United States and many other countries. It has also been fielded on surface platforms in the surface-to-surface and surface-to-air roles.

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

• AGM-114
• Longbow Hellfire
• Romeo Hellfire
• Ninja Missile
• R9X
• Brimstone

USAGE NOTE

While originally designed for helicopters, the term is now widely associated with drone strikes due to its common use on platforms like the MQ-9 Reaper.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Hellfire.

• Lockheed Martin

  The primary contractor for the Hellfire missile system, responsible for its design, production, and various upgrades, including the AGM-114R 'Romeo' multi-purpose variant.

• Northrop Grumman

  Develops and produces critical components for the Hellfire system, including the millimeter-wave radar seeker for the AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire and solid-propulsion rocket motors through its acquisition of Orbital ATK.

• Boeing

  As the successor to original co-developer Rockwell International, Boeing has historical involvement and is the manufacturer of the AH-64 Apache helicopter, a primary launch platform for the Hellfire.

• U.S. Army Program Executive Office (PEO) Missiles and Space

  The government organization responsible for the lifecycle management of the Hellfire missile system, overseeing its development, acquisition, testing, and fielding for the U.S. Army.

• General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems

  Manufactures key components for missile systems, including the multi-effect warheads used in some variants of the Hellfire missile.

• Aerojet Rocketdyne

  A leading developer and manufacturer of propulsion systems, including the solid-fuel rocket motors that power the Hellfire family of missiles.