Rafael Integrates Ground-Launched Derby, Python-5 Missiles in a New Distributed
Air Defense System
Israel's Rafael is developing an air defense weapon system that
will employ networked 'sensors' and 'shooters' to shield ground
elements from attack from the air by aircraft, missiles or other
guided or unguided weapons. Rafael is cooperating with IAI in
the development and worldwide marketing of the system. Both companies
also participated in the Barak air defense program, which was
developed for ship and point defense applications.
The system consists of a distributed network of missile firing
units (MFUs), sensors and command and control elements, installed
on tactical vehicles. The launchers will carry Derby and Python
5 missiles, both equipped with advanced seekers and lock-on-after-launch
capability. After targets are acquired by the remote, passive
or active radar sensors, missiles, best positioned to intercept
the target, will be launched into a designated intercept 'basket.'
Once detected by its seeker, the missile will pursue the intercept
for final kill. If missed, another missile could be allocated
to complete the mission.
The capability of both Python 5 and Derby to 'look down' and acquire
targets at low altitude against background clutter and interference
provides an important feature in their capability to defend against
fast, low-flying targets or low-and-slow helicopters. By extending
the range and coverage of each missile, decoupling radar emitters,
command elements, and launchers, and utilizing redundant, distributed
mobile assets, the new system is highly survivable and illusive
to defense suppression systems. The system will also be integrated
with a new helmet-mounted display and sight, currently under development.
