Freshly
Installed Griffin Missile System Showcased on-board USS Monsoon
at NAVDEX 2015
While visiting the Cyclone class Coastal Patrol Boat USS Monsoon
at NAVDEX 2015, Navy Recognition noticed the vessel was fitted
with a new weapon system: The Raytheon made Griffin Missile System (MK-60
Patrol Coastal Griffin Missile System as called in the U.S. Navy). Navy
Recognition's chief editor met with the Captain to learn more about
the new capabilties this freshly installed weapon system brings to the
Cyclone class PC.
One
of two Griffin launchers on board USS Monsoon at NAVDEX 2015
ARABIAN GULF (March 20, 2014) - The coastal patrol ship USS Typhoon
(PC-5) launches an MK-60 surface-to-surface missile during a Griffin
missile exercise. The Griffin missile exercise is a surface-to-surface
live-fire missile exercise conducted to train for small boat threats
in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass
Communication Specialist 1st Class Doug Harvey/Released)
As
part of a rapid deployement capability contract, Griffin missile is
being integrated on board a number of Cyclone class vessels deployed
in Bahrain. The entire system consists in two government-designed Mk
208 launchers (with four Raytheon's Griffin B Block II missiles each,
a FLIR BRITE Star II sensor/laser designator and a new management system.
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.
The
USS Monsoon Captain briefing Navy Recognition's Chief Editor about the
Griffin Missile System during NAVDEX 2015
The
Captain of USS Monsoon explained to us that the system was installed
back in the United States prior to bringing the vessel over to the Gulf
region. The BRITE Star II camera is used for target detection, aquisition,
to calculate the range and for target designation.
The Captain said the Griffin Missile System is short range but brings
a major new capability in terms of self defense against fast attack craft.
In March 2014, a flotilla of coastal patrol ships launched four Griffin
missiles at target sleds to test the operational capability of the system.
Each missile fired resulted in a successful test of the system and destruction
of the target.
Cyclone
class Coastal Patrol Boat USS Monsoon at NAVDEX 2015