MBDA has unveiled a modular weapons concept to meet a multinational requirement for a common missile for use from fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and ground vehicles. Potential European users for the concept, which provides a rival to the US Joint Common Missile, include France, Germany and the UK.
The proposed system shares a common core comprising a programmable, multi-effect warhead and an electronics package, with a variety of seeker options available and a propulsion choice of a rocket motor or a turbojet engine. Attack profiles for air-launched versions of weapon will range from 8-100km (4.3-54nm), with these capable of destroying both fixed and moving targets, says MBDA. The design will feature a fold-out wing kit for extended-range operations and replace current systems such as MBDA's Brimstone and the USAGM-114 Hellfire series from around 2015.
The MBDA design is intended to meet requirements such as those identified under the UK's Selected Precision Effects At Range project.
Source: Flight International