(AMCS). The missile can be launched in multiple
missile attacks, as required, against hostile forces. A
maximum of six AIM-54C Phoenix missiles can be
launched from a single aircraft, with simultaneous
guidance against widely separated targets. In addition,
the missile has dogfight, electronic counter-
countermeasures (ECCM), and anticruise missile
capabilities.
The physical description of the Phoenix missile is
extremely brief because it is classified as Secret. The
overall length of the missile is 13 feet with a diameter
of 15 inches. It weighs approximately 1,020 pounds.
The missile consists of the guidance section, the
armament section, the propulsion section, and the
control section. The missile is an AUR. The wings and
fins can be mounted or removed to facilitate handling.
Maverick Missile
The tactical AGM-65E Maverick (fig. 3-12) is a
laser-guided, rocket-propelled, air-to-ground missile. It
is used against fortified ground installations, armored
vehicles, and surface combatants. The Maverick
missile is compatible with the A-4M, A-6E, and F/A-18
aircraft.
The AGM-65E missile has two major sections-the
guidance and control section and the center/aft section.
Four fixed wings are an integral part of the center/aft
section, and four movable control surfaces (fins) are
located at the aft section. These fins are installed or
removed to aid in handling. The missile is issued to the
fleet as an AUR. Installation of the fins is the only
assembly required at the organizational maintenance
level.
The AGM-65E missile system has all the laser
missile features, including automatic terminal homing
on laser energy reflected from the target, which is
illuminated by a laser designator. The laser designator
can be a ground device, either hand-held or tripod
mounted It can also be a stabilized airborne device,
mounted either on a separate aircraft or on the
launching aircraft.
Additionally, the warhead
provides kinetic penetration into earth-barricaded or
concrete fortifications and ships. The fuzing system
allows a selectable detonation delay to optimize kill
capability.
For further information on the AGM-65E Maverick,
you should refer to User-Guided Missile AGM-65E
(Maverick), NAVAIR 11-120-58.
Figure 3-12.—AGM-65E Maverick missile.
3-15
