Successful Griffin Missile Test Fire in U.S. 5th Fleet

A flotilla of coastal patrol (PC) ships launched four missiles at target sleds last week to test the operational capability of the system. Each missile fired resulted in a successful test of the system and destruction of the target. The U.S. Navy recently completed the installation of the Griffin Missile System (GMS) aboard USS Firebolt (PC 10), USS Sirocco (PC 6), USS Typhoon (PC 5) and USS Whirlwind (PC 11), which represent four of the eight U.S. 5th Fleet PC force.

Guided missiles like the Griffin give a greater punch to the PC's and will be used alongside existing crew-served weapons and the 25mm MK 38 Mod 2 stabilized chain guns. This layered defense provides PC crews with an enhanced capability to defeat small boat threats.

GMS consists of a government-designed launcher and weapons control system, Forward Looking Infra-Red (FLIR) Systems' BRITE Star II sensor/laser designator, and Raytheon's Griffin B (Block II) missile.

Adapted from aviation and special operations platforms, the 43-inch-long, 33-pound missile has proven itself to be lethal against small boat threats.

All ten Bahrain-based PCs will be outfitted with GMS by 2016.

PCs are in Bahrain based on a strong demand signal for increased Maritime Security Operations in this region. The cost effective ships are ideal platforms for conducting regional engagements with our regional partners.