Maximising Capability
MBDA air-launched systems
MBDA is an assured innovation leader in terms of technology. This technology is being deployed to offer the most advanced air-launched weapon systems extant to maximise the operational capabilities of today’s new generation of combat platforms.
The IAF has taken advantage of this technology through its recent orders of MICA and ASRAAM as part of its Mirage 2000 and Jaguar upgrade programmes respectively. Both weapon systems offer unique capabilities that will give the IAF winning edge in mastering any disputed airspace. MICA, with its two seeker options covering the air battle from short to beyond visual range, brings the IAF’s fleet of Mirages up to the very latest operational standard as deployed by the French Air Force. ASRAAM, which has the fastest reaction time from button push to intercept of any other short range air-to-air missile, will give the IAF’s Jaguar pilots the best possible means of defending themselves against any attack from the air.
MBDA’s portfolio includes Meteor which has long been recognised as an outand- out game changer in the air- to- air battle. Because of its unmatched No Escape Zone (several times greater than that of any existing or planned beyond visual range weapon) provided by its ramjet-induced speed and end of flight envelope agility, Meteor offers air forces both strategic as well as tactical advantages. Any enemy considering aggression using air power will know in advance that significant losses of aircraft will occur before they get anywhere close to being within effective range of their own weapons. The Meteor offers guaranteed air superiority in the form of a clear deterrent. The weapon is already being delivered to the six European partner nations involved in the programme for the Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon and Saab Gripen.
Recent combat operations in Libya and Afghanistan have highlighted capability of yet another MBDA missile system that is unique. The 50kg Brimstone can be deployed from a range of platforms, such as fast combat jets, helicopters and UAVs, to strike a range of static and fast moving surface targets either individually or in salvo mode. With its dual mode seeker (millimetric wave radar and SemiActive Laser), the pilot has the option of fire- and- forget or remaining in control throughout the operation depending on battle environment considerations such as collateral risks. Recent trials have also shown it to the best weapon currently available capable of providing an effective response to the growing threat presented by swarming FIACs (Fast Inshore Attack Craft) such as small armed motor boats and inflatables.
Controlling the airspace is one aspect of an air force’s mission, but it also needs to be able to deliver effects against key ground targets such as control bunkers and infrastructure. For long stand-off attack, MBDA leads the sector with two systems capable of surgical precision at ranges well over 250km : Storm Shadow / SCALP, a weapon associated with the Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon, showed its capabilities with devastating effect during operations inIraq and Libya. Its success even led to the US showing unprecedented interest in a non-American produced weapon. MBDA also has the Taurus KEPD 350 ER whose ‘Tritec’ navigation system allows it to operate effectively even in the absence of a GPS signal. It also has the unique capability of counting voids as it penetrates the various floors of a targeted building, heading for its intended point of detonation.