The scientific work involves aeroelasticity, computational fluid mechanics and wind tunnel testing. This DSTO work ensures safety for the flight trials and significantly reduces the number of flight trials necessary for clearance. By undertaking this work in Australia the ADF saves both time and money. In the Five Year Defence Program 1997-2002, Defence aims to acquire some 15 missile systems, many of which will require clearance from ADF platforms. The higher cost reflects mainly the higher cost of the Harpoon store compared with the GBU store.
Flight tests require the actual release of stores from aircraft.