UK to deliver Ukraine new air defense system using ASRAAM IR missiles mounted on HMT truck.

According to information published on the Twitter account of "Ukraine Weapons Tracker" on August 4, 2023, the Government of the United Kingdom approved more military assistance to Ukraine with the delivery of a new mobile air defense system consisting of ASRAAM (Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile) IR anti-aircraft missiles mounted on a Supacat HMT truck.
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The new British air defense vehicle for Ukraine consists of ASRAAM Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile IR anti-aircraft missiles launcher station mounted at the rear of a Supacat HMT truck. (Picture source Twitter Ukraine Weapons Tracker)

The new air defense vehicle for Ukraine was jointly developed by the British Ministry of Defense and the company MBDA, a European multinational company that specializes in the development and production of missiles and missile systems.

In recent days Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has continued to ask Europe and the United States for more anti-aircraft defenses in order to counter the daily drone and missile attacks by the Russian armed forces. This new mobile air defense system that the UK will supply to Ukraine is quite innovative and is not yet in service with any other armies in the world.

The Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile, or ASRAAM, is an infrared (IR)-guided missile developed by the British company MBDA. It is designed for use in short-range air combat scenarios and is currently in service with the British Royal Air Force, among other international users.

One of the key features of the ASRAAM is its all-aspect engagement capability. This means it can target enemy aircraft from any angle, significantly broadening its effectiveness in combat scenarios. The missile's infrared seeker head, which provides heat-seeking capabilities, allows it to lock onto the heat signature of enemy aircraft.

The ASRAAM also boasts impressive speed and maneuverability, making it a formidable asset in a variety of combat scenarios. It has a lock-on after-launch capability, which means it can be fired first and then acquire its target post-launch. This is particularly advantageous in complex, fast-paced air combat situations.

Another notable characteristic of the ASRAAM is its resistance to countermeasures such as flares, which are often used by enemy aircraft to confuse and divert heat-seeking missiles. This resistance is due, in part, to its advanced guidance technology.

The version that will be delivered to Ukraine, is a new modified version of the ASRAAM that can be used as a ground-to-air missile. A launcher station will be mounted at the rear of an HMT truck designed and manufactured by the British company Supacat.

The High Mobility Transporter (HMT) by Supacat is a range of extremely versatile off-road military vehicles. These vehicles are purpose-built for an array of military roles, including patrol, convoy protection, as well as command and control functions.

The HMT is known for its exceptional off-road capability, designed specifically to navigate challenging terrains. Its high ground clearance and robust engine contribute to its superior all-terrain mobility, enabling it to function effectively in a range of demanding environments.

One of the defining features of the HMT is its modular design. This allows the vehicle to be configured for different roles as per mission requirements. It can serve as a troop transport or be equipped with various systems like weapons, surveillance equipment, and other mission-specific gear, highlighting its adaptability.

The HMT is also designed to be air-portable, meaning it can be transported by military aircraft for rapid deployment to remote locations or areas difficult to access by land. This feature enhances its operational flexibility, making it a valuable asset in military logistics.

Defense News August 2023