The Griffin missile system offers a surgical approach to modern irregular warfare engagements

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Developed by Raytheon, the Griffin is a versatile, lightweight munition designed to minimize collateral damage. Whether deployed as a glide bomb or a rocket-powered missile, this modular weapon system provides precision targeting for aircraft, ships, and ground vehicles, fundamentally changing how military forces address threats in complex, crowded environments.

The Griffin platform emerged as a modular solution, integrating components from established systems like the Javelin and Sidewinder to create a low-cost, precision-guided tool. Its primary design philosophy centers on reducing collateral damage through a relatively small 13-pound warhead. The system exists in several iterations, ranging from the unpowered Griffin A glide bomb to the rocket-propelled Griffin B and the advanced Griffin C, which features imaging infrared seekers and two-way data links for enhanced target verification.

Operational flexibility defines the Griffin's utility. The munition can be launched from diverse platforms, including cargo aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and patrol vessels. For instance, the MK-60 system allows naval patrol craft to defend against swarm boat attacks, extending their reach beyond traditional gun mounts. Because the missile is significantly lighter than the Hellfire, aircraft like the Predator can carry three Griffins in the space typically required for a single Hellfire, allowing for more engagement opportunities per sortie.

Technological evolution remains a core focus for the program. While early versions relied on semi-active laser guidance or GPS, newer variants like the Griffin C incorporate dual-mode seekers and in-flight target update capabilities. This allows operators to redirect the missile mid-flight, a critical feature when navigating between neutral shipping and hostile targets. Although the Navy ultimately selected the Hellfire for its Littoral Combat Ships due to radar integration advantages, the Griffin continues to serve as a vital, adaptable asset across multiple branches of the United States military.

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