US Air Force successfully tests low-cost, mass producible Rusty Dagger cruise missiles

Courtesy Photo: ERAM drop. An Extended Range Attack Munition live-fire test was conducted Jan. 22, 2025 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Photo credit: US Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Public Domain. Article by Mrigakshi Dixit. Interesting Engineering – February 3, 2026.

In January, the US Air Force successfully conducted the first live-warhead test of the Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) at the Eglin Test and Training Range. Moments later, a high-value target evaporated in a precise, orange bloom of fire. The test represents a major milestone in military acquisition, moving from contract award to live-fire demonstration in less than 16 months — a timeline officials are calling “the speed of relevance.” […]

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