The French company Safran has introduced new versions of its AASM Hammer long-range bombs with increased range. These are kits for bombs in the caliber of 250 kg and 1000 kg (500- and 2000-pound) - they received the XLR designation. This is reported by Defense Express.
The manufacturer showed the new product during the Le Bourget air show. Meanwhile, Safran has not yet released an official announcement about the development. Accordingly, the exact parameters of the AASM Hammer XLR have not yet been announced.
However, back in 2023, the French company announced work on new versions of the kits - they were supposed to significantly increase the range of the AASM Hammer, which in the case of a high-altitude drop exceeds 70 km.
Work was underway to upgrade the munition's engine with the plan to increase the range to 150-200 km, depending on the launch conditions. However, it is not yet clear whether this goal has been achieved.
However, in the photos from the company's stand, which are published online, you can notice something interesting. According to Defense Express , the engine block with control surfaces has something similar to air intakes, which in various photos may be covered with covers that are potentially intended to be fired during the unfolding of the plumage.
The media mentions two possible options for the appearance of this part. The first of them involves installing a small turbojet engine in the AASM Hammer XLR. This solution is called controversial due to the need for fuel and the entire fuel system in the limited dimensions of the kit.
Another option is to use a solid-fuel ramjet engine, like the one on the Meteor air-to-air rocket. This engine takes oxygen from the air, which allows it to use a lower proportion of solid fuel. This means a longer operating time.
The publication adds that if the French company has chosen this path, then it is an interesting solution that will allow for a greater range of application within the same dimensions. For Ukraine, which uses the AASM Hammer, this is of great importance.