// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM

PGM

PGM stands for Precision-Guided Munition, which is a type of weapon, like a bomb or missile, that uses guidance systems to hit its target with high accuracy. This allows for more precise attacks and helps reduce unintended damage to surrounding areas.

PGM — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

A Precision-Guided Munition (PGM) is an aerial weapon system, such as a bomb or missile, that incorporates guidance technology (e.g., GPS, laser, infrared, radar) to achieve high terminal accuracy against specific targets, thereby minimizing collateral damage in military operations.

BACKGROUND

The Hécate II is the standard heavy sniper rifle and anti-materiel rifle of the French Army, sometimes known as the FR-12.7. It is manufactured by PGM Précision of France. This is the largest weapon manufactured by PGM, chambered for the .50 BMG cartridge. The name of the rifle is derived from the ancient Greek goddess Hecate.

READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIA

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Smart bomb
  • Guided weapon
  • Precision weapon
  • Guided munition
  • GPS-guided bomb
  • Laser-guided bomb

USAGE NOTE

PGMs are a cornerstone of modern air warfare, enabling surgical strikes and enhancing the effectiveness and ethical considerations of military engagements by reducing non-combatant casualties.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to PGM.

  • Lockheed Martin

    A global aerospace, defense, security, and advanced technologies company that develops and manufactures a wide range of precision-guided munitions, including air-to-ground missiles (e.g., Hellfire, JASSM), naval missiles, and guided artillery rockets (e.g., GMLRS).

  • RTX Corporation

    A leading aerospace and defense company, through its Raytheon business, it is a major developer and producer of precision-guided munitions such as the Tomahawk cruise missile, AMRAAM air-to-air missile, and Paveway laser-guided bombs.

  • Boeing Defense, Space & Security

    The defense division of The Boeing Company, it develops and produces various precision-guided weapons systems, including the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), Small Diameter Bomb (SDB), and Harpoon anti-ship missile.

  • Northrop Grumman

    A global aerospace and defense technology company that develops and manufactures advanced precision weapons and guidance systems, including the Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM) and various munition components.

  • MBDA

    A European multinational developer and manufacturer of missiles and missile systems, offering a comprehensive range of precision-guided weapons for air, sea, and land operations, such as Meteor, SCALP/Storm Shadow, and ASRAAM.

  • BAE Systems

    A British multinational defense, security, and aerospace company that develops and manufactures advanced precision-guided munitions and related technologies, including naval gun systems, artillery shells, and missile components.

  • Rafael Advanced Defense Systems

    An Israeli defense company that develops and manufactures advanced defense systems, including a wide array of precision-guided munitions such as the Spike family of anti-tank missiles and various air-to-air missiles.

  • Saab AB

    A Swedish aerospace and defense company that develops and manufactures a range of precision-guided weapons, including anti-ship missiles (e.g., RBS 15), anti-tank missiles, and advanced weapon systems for air and ground platforms.

RELATED TERMS IN MISSILES & HYPERSONICS