The objective
of the test firing was to demonstrate the capabilities
of the VL MICA system against precision weapons launched
from a stand-off range. Organised by MBDA with the support
of various DGA (Direction Générale de l'Armement)
teams, the test was a natural follow on from the evaluations
which have just been concluded by the French Air Force
as part of their SALVE (Sol-Air à Lancement VErtical)
technical demonstration programme.
The VL MICA
was equipped with an active electromagnetic seeker produced
by Thales. As in previous evaluations, this firing was
carried out using a Conteneur Lanceur Autonome (Autonomous
Launch Container) conforming to a standard series production
model.
This seventeenth
VL MICA firing is yet another demonstration of the reliability,
exceptional precision and, most importantly, the high
level of operational performance provided by the system.
The four foreign
delegations present as observers during the firing were
unanimous in underlining the excellent impression made
by the VL MICA system which has already received several
orders in both its naval and land versions.
