Edge Studies Air-, Ground-Launched Ballistic Missiles

Rafale

Credit: Dassault Aviation

DUBAI— Edge Group has started feasibility studies of two new guided ballistic missiles for ground- and air-launch platforms.

The ground-launched Elyah-250 and air-launched Qattam-250 are displayed for the first time in the United Arab Emirates-based company’s munitions pavilion in the outdoor static area of the Dubai Airshow here.

The solid-propellant-fueled Elyah-250 is intended to be integrated into a proposed multiple launch rocket system also in development by the UAE, an Edge representative says.

The Qattam-250 is intended to be launched from a fighter, but details such as the specific platform have not yet been determined. The UAE operates Dassault Rafales, Mirage 2000-9s and Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 60s.

Both proposed missiles would lack a terminal seeker, and would be guided to a target up to 135 nm (250 km) away using a Global Navigation Satellite System/inertial measurement unit.

The Elyah-250 would be armed with a 110-lb. fragmentation warhead, whereas the air-launched weapon would deliver an integrated, 250-lb. Mk. 81 bomb.

Steve Trimble

Steve covers military aviation, missiles and space for the Aviation Week Network, based in Washington DC.