DARPA's EXACTO program conducts first successful live-fire tests of .50-caliber optically guided bullets

July 14, 2014
Extreme Accuracy Tasked Ordnance (EXACTO) is a program conducted by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA; Washington, DC); the intent is to develop guided .50-caliber bullets, using a combination of optical sighting technology and a steering system on each bullet. Now, DARPA revealed that the program, in its Phase II, has conducted the successful live-fire tests.

Extreme Accuracy Tasked Ordnance (EXACTO) is a program conducted by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA; Washington, DC); the intent is to develop guided .50-caliber bullets, using a combination of optical sighting technology and a steering system on each bullet. Now, DARPA revealed that the program, in its Phase II, has conducted successful live-fire tests (see video below).

(Video: DARPA)

The video shows a EXACTO round maneuvering in flight to hit a target offset from where the rifle is aimed. EXACTO’s steerable ammunition and real-time optical guidance system track and direct projectiles to their targets, and in the process compensate for weather, wind, target movement, and other factors that impede successful hits.

Technology development in Phase II included the design, integration and demonstration of aero-actuation controls, power sources, optical guidance systems, and sensors. The program's next phase includes a system-level live-fire test and technology refinement to enhance performance.

For more information on EXACTO, see http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/TTO/Programs/Extreme_Accuracy_Tasked_Ordnance_(EXACTO).aspx

The EXACTO technology is similar in some respects to a prototype laser-guided bullet system developed at Sandia National Laboratories (Albuquerque, NM) and demoed in 2012. In the Sandia system, which uses a large (4-in.-long) but narrow finned bullet, a laser-designated spot on the target provides the signal for the bullet to home in on.

Sponsored Recommendations

How Precision Motion Systems are Shaping the Future of Semiconductor Manufacturing

March 28, 2024
This article highlights the pivotal role precision motion systems play in supporting the latest semiconductor manufacturing trends.

Understanding 3D Printing Tolerances: A Guide to Achieving Precision in Additive Manufacturing

March 28, 2024
In the world of additive manufacturing, precision is paramount. One crucial aspect of ensuring precision in 3D printing is understanding tolerances. In this article, we’ll explore...

Automation Technologies to Scale PIC Testing from Lab to Fab

March 28, 2024
This webinar will cover the basics of precision motion systems for PIC testing and discuss the ways motion solutions can be specifically designed to address the production-scale...

Case Study: Medical Tube Laser Processing

March 28, 2024
To enhance their cardiovascular stent’s precision, optimize throughput and elevate part quality, a renowned manufacturer of medical products embarked on a mission to fabricate...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!