AV-MTC Tactical Cruise Missile the Main Highlight
The 300km-range AV-MTC tactical cruise missile, with an accuracy of less than 50m claimed by the company, was the principal focus of Avibras activity during LAAD 2019. The company additionally exhibited its full portfolio of missile systems, including products under development.
AV-MTC is powered initially by a solid-fuel rocket motor, then an Avibras-developed subsonic motor takes the missile through its second stage flight, in which it is guided towards the target by an inertial navigation system (INS) and GPS. Estimated flight speed of the 5.5m, 1,400kg missile is 800 km/h, carrying a 200kg HE warhead. Each launch vehicle carries four missiles.
The system is part of the ASTROS 2020 programme, which is the sixth generation of the multiple artillery rocket launcher system. With an investment of around BRL2.45 billion (€565 million), 100 missiles have been ordered and are expected to be delivered in 2020-2023. The ASTROS 2020 can carry other types of rockets, from SS-30 (32 rockets per launcher, range 30km); SS-40 (16 rockets, 40km); SS-60 (4 rounds, 70km); and SS-80 (4 rounds, 90km). There is also a new rocket with improved guidance and precision, with a range of 45km, the SS-40G.
Another highlight was the A-DARTER missile, a joint development project between Brazil and South Africa. This 5th-generation infrared-guided air-to-air missile has a range of 8-13km and a lock-on after launch capability. It can identify and engage targets perpendicular to flight direction and is sufficiently agile to manoeuvre in 180° curves. The GRIPEN E/F will carry the missile in Brazilian Air Force service, while in South Africa it will arm the Air Force’s GRIPEN C/D models.
João Paulo Moralez
