What Is the AGM-65 Maverick and Who Designed and Produced It?
The AGM-65 Maverick is a precision-guided air-to-surface missile designed to engage ground targets with high accuracy. It was developed by Hughes Aircraft Company, which later became part of Raytheon Company. The Maverick missile was intended to provide a versatile and effective weapon for tactical strike missions against a variety of targets.
Armament Specifications
- Length: Approximately 9 feet (2.72 meters)
- Diameter: 12 inches (0.30 meters)
- Weight: Approximately 670 pounds (304 kilograms)
- Speed: Subsonic
- Range: Up to 15 miles (24 kilometers)
- Guidance: Electro-optical or infrared seeker
- Warhead: Various options, including high-explosive, shaped charge, or penetrating
Aircraft That Used This Armament
Numerous aircraft were and are equipped with this armament, including:
A-10 Thunderbolt II: The A-10, also known as the “Warthog,” is a close air support aircraft designed for the United States Air Force. It carries AGM-65 Maverick missiles as part of its air-to-ground armament. The A-10’s robust design and powerful GAU-8 Avenger cannon complement the Maverick missile’s precision strike capabilities, allowing it to effectively engage armored vehicles and fortified targets.
F-16 Fighting Falcon: The F-16 is a multirole fighter aircraft operated by various air forces around the world. It is equipped with AGM-65 Maverick missiles for precision strike missions against ground targets. The F-16’s advanced avionics and maneuverability make it well-suited for delivering Maverick missiles with pinpoint accuracy, enhancing its effectiveness in air-to-ground roles.
F/A-18 Hornet: The F/A-18 is a carrier-based multirole fighter used by the United States Navy and Marine Corps. It carries AGM-65 Maverick missiles as part of its air-to-ground armament. The F/A-18’s all-weather capability and versatility make it a valuable asset for delivering precision strikes using Maverick missiles in a variety of operational scenarios.
AH-64 Apache: The AH-64 Apache is an attack helicopter used by the United States Army and various international operators. It is equipped with AGM-65 Maverick missiles for engaging ground targets, including armored vehicles and fortified positions. The Apache’s agility and firepower, combined with the Maverick missile’s precision guidance, make it a formidable platform for close air support and anti-armor missions.
Boeing AH-64 Apache
The Boeing AH-64 Apache is an American twin-turboshaft attack helicopter primarily operated by the U.S. Army but used by many nations.
McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet
The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet is a supersonic, twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft designed by McDonnell Douglas and Northrop.
Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II
The Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II – Ground Attack Aircraft is a single-seat, twin-turbofan, straight-wing, subsonic attack aircraft.
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft developed for the USAF.
A Short History of the AGM-65 Maverick
The AGM-65 Maverick missile entered service in the 1970s and has since undergone several upgrades and improvements. It has been employed in numerous conflicts and military operations, demonstrating its effectiveness in striking high-value targets with precision. The Maverick missile’s versatility and reliability have made it a preferred choice for air-to-ground missions, contributing to its continued use by various air forces and armed services worldwide.
