MBDA
has successfully completed two Mistral firings using a SIMBAD-RC firing
post. These trials represent the last technical milestone before delivery
to its first customer. They served to validate the interface between
the missile and the new twin-launcher , confirming the correct departure
of the missile from the firing post, as well as the system's ability
to carry out salvo firings. |
The
SIMBAD-RC is a remotely-controlled, very short range naval air defence
system that provides highly efficient capabilities against a wide range
of threats, from fighter aircraft through to anti-ship missiles or small-sized
threats such as Unmanned Air Vehicles. SIMBAD-RC gives an easy to set
up, self-defence capability to patrol vessels and support craft, or
complements the air defence capabilities of other ship types. Each turret
supports two ready-to-fire missiles. The turrets are remotely-operated
and so allow the operator to remain under cover, thereby ensuring longer
operational availability in case of a combat alert.
Antoine Bouvier, CEO of MBDA, said: "The SIMBAD-RC programme illustrates
how MBDA helps customers leverage their previous acquisitions. Starting
from a market standard such as the Mistral missile, of which more than
17,000 have been produced and are in service in nearly 30 countries
worldwide, we have built a simple to operate and highly automated system
that greatly improves the operational use of the missiles already in
service. "
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