The AQM-37C(EP) extended performance target capable of flying at 100,000 ft
altitude at a speed of MACH 4 was launched from an F-4 aircraft at 50,000 ft altitude traveling at MACH 1.5.
Eight of these targets were specially modified for flight safety purposes to be flown at WSMR as targets for
the Standard Missile program SM-2 Block IV in 1993. The targets were supported by crews from the Pacific
Missile Range at Point Mugu, CA. Launch of the target from the F-4 aircraft occurred virtually over the
Albuquerque International Airport requiring special road blocks south of Albuquerque, use of the north
range extension co-use area and evacuation of most of WSMR up-range areas. The AQM-37 targets were built
by Beech Aircraft Co. at Wichita Kansas.
