| A-Darter | |
|---|---|
The A-DARTER between other missiles of Denel Dynamics, the Mokopa and the Umkhonto-IR. |
|
| Type | Air-to-air missile |
| Place of origin | South Africa Brazil |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Denel Dynamics Mectron |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 89 kg |
| Length | 2.98 m |
| Diameter | 0.166 m |
|
|
|
| Engine | Solid-fuel rocket |
| Wingspan | 0.488 m |
| Guidance system |
Infra-red homing |
| Launch platform |
Combat aircraft |
| External images | |
|---|---|
| The Denel A-darter air-to-air missile on display alongside the Denel Umkhonto IR/R surface-to-air missile. | |
The A-Darter is a fifth generation short range infrared homing air-to-air missile, under development by South Africa's Denel Dynamics (formerly Kentron) and Brazil's Mectron. It is expected to enter service with the South African Air Force, Brazilian Air Force (FAB) and be offered for export. Ground tests and captive flight tests were performed in early 2010; launch tests in July 2010.[1]
In 2006 it was announced that Denel would use the latest solid-state inertial measurement unit, the SiIMU02 from BAE Systems for mid course range guidance.[2]
Contents |
The new missile will equip the South African Air Force's JAS 39 Gripen and BAE Hawk aircraft. The Brazilian Air Force chose the A-Darter for its standard short range missile and will integrate it on the A-1M AMX, F-5BR and future FX-2.[3]
During the second quarter of 2010 flight testing and the programme to integrate the missile on the SAAF's JAS 39 Gripen and BAE Hawk aircraft began at Denel's Overberg Test Range.[4]
