Air-to-Air Missiles – Still an Operational Requirement

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By ARIE EGOZI

There are two opposite concepts that cause a big ongoing debate among the experts. One is that the F-35 is the last manned fighter to be developed in the west and the other – that air-to-air missiles have lost their past glare and may not be further developed.

Rafael is developing an advanced air-to-air missile. Experts say that the air forces in Arab countries have lost much of their potential in recent years but that may change .

This exactly is why Rafael is still developing advanced air-air missiles.

The Python-5 which is operational in the Israeli air force and other air forces is considered one of the most advanced 5th generation air-to-air missile.

Sources say that based on past experience, the company is working on a “very advanced, very surprising missile that will surpass any other air-air missile in the world”

Experts have said in many occasions that the Python -5 is a very “super agile” air-air missile.

So far, the Israeli company has only admitted that is is developing “Building Blocks” for a 6th generation air-to-air missile.

Rafael said that the “Stunner” missile developed for the “David Sling” rocket interceptor system, is the basis for any 6th generation air-air missile that the Israeli company may develop in the future.

The advanced dual sensors to be used in future air-to-air missiles developed by Rafael will probably involve the “dolphin head” nose section that was used in the “Stunner” missile.

The “Dolphin head” shape allows the two seekers to function simultaneously with no interference even in “extreme conditions”.

The Stunner, uses a multi-pulse rocket motor, and is equipped with a dual seeker. This according company sources will ensure high sensitivity under all weather conditions and immunity to deception and countermeasures.  

The “Stunner” is 4.60 meters long.

The Israeli Lockheed Martin F-35 that the Israeli air force will get starting in 2017 will be armed with very advanced air-air missiles as part of their combat suit.