A rapidly developed surface-to-air missile system based on MBDA’s Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (Asraam) has achieved hit rates of 90% against Russian targets in Ukraine, the UK defense ministry has revealed.
The air defense system, developed by a joint team from the UK defense ministry and MBDA, was fielded in just four months. The details of the system have finally emerged following the publication of a single image in August 2023. The image showed the Asraam missiles mounted on launch rails fitted to a Supacat high-mobility vehicle, possibly cued by an electro-optical system.
Asraam, the primary short-range air-to-air weapon of the UK Royal Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoon and Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, proved its adaptability by being ground launched. The weapon can be launched against targets without a direct line of sight, securing lock on after launch.
Within four months of initiating the surface-launched Asraam project, these air defense systems were developed, manufactured, trialed, and Ukrainian crews trained on their usage, on UK soil, before being transferred into Ukrainian hands, officials said.
The successful deployment of the surface-launched Asraam is attributed to the best of British engineering ingenuity. The Ukrainian armed forces, not only proficient in using the missile system but have also requested more missiles due to its effectiveness.
The surface-launched Asraam utilizes older missile stocks that are being retired from the UK inventory. The newer version, Block 6, features an improved seeker.
The ground-launched Asraam joins the ground-launched version of the MBDA Brimstone air-to-ground missile, which was also rapidly developed and fielded in Ukraine.
This marks the first time the Asraam has been ground launched. Although it was developed into the radio frequency-guided Common Anti-Air Modular Missile (CAMM), which soft launches vertically from a canister for land and naval use. CAMM has already achieved export success in land and naval domains.
As the UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps announced on Dec. 29, the UK will provide more Asraams to boost Ukraine’s ground-based air defenses. This decision comes after a series of attacks using airborne and sea-launched cruise missiles, the Khinzal aeroballistic missile, and uncrewed aircraft systems.
The surface-launched Asraam’s remarkable performance in Ukraine provides a significant boost to the country’s air defense capabilities. As tensions persist in the region, the ground-launched Asraam system demonstrates the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense against potential threats.
This development opens up possibilities for further integration and cooperation between the UK and Ukraine, strengthening their partnership in the field of military technology and defense capabilities.
The successful deployment of the ground-launched Asraam not only showcases the effectiveness of British engineering but also highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing shared security concerns.
With the Asraam system proving its mettle on the Ukrainian front, it serves as a testament to innovation and adaptability in modern warfare. As the conflict continues, the ground-launched Asraam system stands as a strong deterrent against potential aggressors, ensuring the safety and security of Ukraine and its allies.
In conclusion, the ground-launched Asraam’s exceptional hit rates in Ukraine against Russian targets underscore its effectiveness as a vital component of the country’s air defense capabilities. The system’s rapid development and successful deployment demonstrate the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against potential threats. The ground-launched Asraam system serves as a testament to British engineering ingenuity and highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing shared security concerns. As tensions persist in the region, the Asraam system stands as a strong deterrent, ensuring the safety and security of Ukraine and its allies.
