Britain tests newest small cruise missile Spear 3
The UK Ministry of Defence and the Royal Air Force conducted the first test of the Spear 3 small cruise missile.
Here's What We Know
The test launch took place at the Vidsel test site in Sweden. During the test, a Typhoon fighter jet from 41 Squadron of the Royal Air Force conducted a controlled missile launch, hitting a ground target - a T-72M1 tank.
The squadron is working closely with the BAE Systems test team, which is developing software to integrate the missile onto F-35B aircraft.
The Spear 3 missile is based on the Brimstone aircraft missile, but instead of a rocket engine, it is equipped with a PBS TJ150 turbojet and has a wing that increases its range to 150 km. Its compact dimensions allow the Typhoon fighter to carry up to 18 such missiles, while the F-35B can carry up to 8.
The Spear 3 is capable of flying at high subsonic speeds, using an inertial system and GPS for guidance. Its modular guidance system allows the missile to be adapted to different targets, including enemy radars.
Despite the successful tests, the programme is facing delays. Integration on the F-35B is expected by 2048, while the Spear 3's entry into service has been postponed to 2028 due to technical issues, including software bugs and contractor delays.
Source: Royal Air Force
