Dassault is showing new details of its concept to use the Rafale strike fighter as a small satellite launcher.
(credit: Dassault)
The launcher would be configured to use several of the aircraft's weapons store stations. The main element of the launcher would be carried centerline, with two solid boosters slung under the wing. The solids would be connected to the main launcher through so called "fixed arms."
The configuration would still leave clearance for the landing gear, so the Rafale could return to base with the launcher if that were required.
Dassault has been working with the French space agency CNES on the small satellite launcher concept for about four years. The goal is to loft a 150 kg payload into a 800 km orbit. The launcher weighs around 10 metric tons.
The system would meet "defense and security" needs, Dassault says. French military officials have signalled some interest in a responsive space launcher concept similar to what the U.S. is investigating.
So far no takers...
"MiG-31S: Commercial small satellite launch variant, with Fakel OKB Micron missile capable of delivering a 100 kg (220 lb) payload into a 200 km (124 mile) orbit or a 70 kg (154 lb) payload into a 500 km (311 mile) orbit. The type could also launch the Aerospace Rally System rocket-powered suborbital glider, for astronaut training, upper atmosphere research or space tourism."
"There were plans in the 1990's to use the Tupolev Tu-160 as a launch platform for Burlak - Air-Launched Satellite Launcher."