MBDA unveils surface-launched Brimstone platform concepts

European missile systems house MBDA has unveiled two new high load-out, salvo-fire, surface-to-surface missile platform concepts designed to exploit the anti-armour capabilities of the Brimstone precision strike missile.

Equipped with dual-mode (millimetric wave radar – MMW/ semi-active laser – SAL) – seeker, Brimstone is a 180 mm 50 kg class effector originally conceived to engage static and manoeuvring targets in an air-to-surface role. MBDA has subsequently extensively trialled the weapon system for surface-launched applications from land and naval platforms in line with its ‘one missile, multiplatform’ initiative.

Brimstone is the primary air-to-surface armament on the UK Royal Air Force (RAF) Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 swing-role combat aircraft, and will also be integrated on the RAF’s future Protector RG Mk1 remotely piloted air system (RPAS); additionally, the missile is a candidate for the primary air-to-ground munition to equip the British Army’s AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter. The Brimstone capability for all platforms will be drawn from a common stockpile in line with the provisions of MBDA’s Portfolio Management Agreement (PMA) with the UK Ministry of Defence.

MBDA, using internal research and development (IRAD) funding, has now developed a cassette of six Brimstone missiles on a modular elevating launcher for use with unmanned ground vehicles (UGV), to provide an autonomous, all-weather, all-terrain, high-volume precision effects capability against all known defensive aid suite (DAS)-equipped heavy armour. The company is expected to showcase this solution at DSEI installed on a Milrem Robotics Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System (THeMIS) unmanned ground vehicle (UGV).