MBDA Unveils Final Trials of Enhanced Brimstone: A New Era in Operational Excellence
Brimstone Missile Enhancements: Successful Operational Evaluation Trials
The Brimstone air-to-surface missile, developed by MBDA, has demonstrated exceptional performance through recent operational evaluation trials conducted by the Royal Air Force (RAF). These trials, held in February 2016 at China Lake in the USA, mark significant advancements in the missile’s technical capabilities. Since its introduction, Brimstone has accomplished approximately 500 missile firings, showcasing an impressive success rate.
Comprehensive Missile Trials
During the evaluation, a total of 11 missile firings were conducted to push the boundaries of the weapon system’s capabilities. The trials addressed various operational scenarios, resulting in precise strikes on small, fast-moving vehicles and complex static targets. Both single and salvo firings were executed, utilizing advanced guidance modes, including laser, millimetric radar, and dual-mode, along with ground-based third-party laser designation.
Enhanced Engagement Envelope
The evaluation significantly expanded the missile’s engagement envelope compared to the in-service model, offering a 100% increase in stand-off range. This extension allows for targets to be engaged at high off-bore sight angles, enhancing the effectiveness of close air support (CAS) maneuvers. This capability enables firing from a maneuvering platform without the need for alignment with the target.
Innovative Warhead Features
The trials also showcased Brimstone’s new Insensitive Munition (IM) warhead, which proved effective against both armored and non-armored targets, introducing added deployment advantages for operational success.
Future Integrations
The RAF’s Eurofighter Typhoon will be the first platform to benefit from these upgrades, with an integration program scheduled for 2018. Additionally, separate initiatives are underway for Brimstone’s potential application on the UK’s Future Attack Helicopter and the Protector Remotely-Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS).
