AGM-87 Focus
Encyclopedia
Overview
The missile was a development of the AIM-9B SidewinderAIM-9 Sidewinder
The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a heat-seeking, short-range, air-to-air missile carried mostly by fighter aircraft and recently, certain gunship helicopters. The missile entered service with United States Air Force in the early 1950s, and variants and upgrades remain in active service with many air forces...
air-to-air missile
Air-to-air missile
An air-to-air missile is a missile fired from an aircraft for the purpose of destroying another aircraft. AAMs are typically powered by one or more rocket motors, usually solid fuelled but sometimes liquid fuelled...
, intended for use against ground targets. Development took place at the China Lake Naval Weapons Center
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake
- About : is part of under Commander, Navy Installation Command and is located in the Western Mojave Desert region of California, approximately north of Los Angeles. Occupying three counties – Kern, San Bernardino and Inyo – the installation’s closest neighbors are the cities of Ridgecrest,...
during the late 1960s. The infrared guidance method of the Sidewinder was retained, as the missile was to be used against targets which emitted an infrared signature. Typical targets included trucks and other such vehicles.
The Focus was used in Vietnam during 1969 and 1970, primarily for night attacks when IR emitters stand out well against the cool background. Although the missile was reportedly quite effective, it was discontinued in favour of other weapons.
Specifications
- Length : 2.83 m (9 ft 3.5 in)
- Finspan : 0.56 m (1 ft 10 in)
- Diameter : 12.7 cm (5 in)
- Weight : 70 kg (155 lb)
- Propulsion : Thiokol MK 17 MOD 3 solid-fuel rocket