EDGE completes successful integration programmes, adding enhanced modularity and mission flexibility to munitions range.

EDGE Group entity, AL TARIQ, a company involved in the design and manufacturing of precision guided munitions (PGM), announces at Dubai Airshow 2021 a series of milestone developments within its product range, including the successful integration of the AL TARIQ kit onto a 1,000 lb HSLD 450/Mk 83 bomb. The company has also integrated a range of latest technology operational features that significantly enhance the mission capability of the AL TARIQ family of long range (LR) precision guided munitions.

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AL TARIQ is a modular family of PGMs designed for the Mk 81, Mk 82, and Mk 83 (250 lb, 500 lb, 1,000 lb) aerial bombs, delivering superior mission flexibility due to its design. Offering long stand-off ranges exceeding 120 km and multiple seeker options, AL TARIQ is an advanced tactical solution with all-weather, day-or-night operational capability (Picture source: EDGE)

In ongoing successful trials, AL TARIQ demonstrated the operational capability of its LR-PGM able of carrying the 1,000 lb payload. This version of AL TARIQ utilises the same high value components as the Mk 81 and Mk 82, underlining the unique modularity for cost-effective operations. The new version of the AL TARIQ LR-PGM is making its public debut at Dubai Airshow 2021. A latest technology GNSS anti-jamming capability has also been integrated and demonstrated to provide a high degree of mission success against multiple high-powered GPS jammers.

Theunis Botha, CEO of AL TARIQ said: “Expanding AL TARIQ’s payload to 1,000 lb aerial bombs and the latest operational features is part of the munition’s roadmap, which will ultimately make it one of the most versatile and reliable precision weapons in use. The successful trials are extremely encouraging, and we look forward to this new version’s operational qualification and field use in due course.”

The AL TARIQ system has also successfully integrated a new Height-of-Burst Sensor (HOBS), with the enhanced weapon having been flight qualified earlier this year. The HOBS enhances the capability of AL TARIQ munitions to utilise airburst applications, capable of neutralising strategic infrastructure such as radar installations and convoys, utilising the adjustable height selection.

The company has further integrated a newly developed high-performance 500 lb penetration warhead from a leading warhead supplier on its PGMs. This newly-developed penetration warhead is in the final stages of integration, providing the ability to successfully engage hardened targets such as underground bunkers, bridges, or control centres. Flight qualification is due to commence in early 2022.

AL TARIQ is a modular family of PGMs designed for the Mk 81, Mk 82, and Mk 83 (250 lb, 500 lb, 1,000 lb) aerial bombs, delivering superior mission flexibility due to its design. Offering long stand-off ranges exceeding 120 km and multiple seeker options, AL TARIQ is an advanced tactical solution with all-weather, day-or-night operational capability. The system offers a cost-effective wireless integration option or a digital solution for aircraft requiring either MIL-STD-1760 or DIGIBUS interfacing.

Botha commented: “Innovation is a key element in the development of effective modern munitions and these latest upgrades to the AL TARIQ family of LR PGM ensure they perform at the highest levels for the modern-day battlefield. The integration of these latest operational features further reflects the versatility of AL TARIQ systems.”

The AL TARIQ company is part of the Missiles & Weapons cluster within EDGE, an advanced technology group for defence and beyond that ranks among the top 25 military suppliers in the world.