The MBDA Meteor is an European Air-to-Air missile designed for BVR combat (Beyond Visual Range Combat) it was developed under a joint venture by MBDA, EADS and Saab Bofors Dynamics. The missile is a big step for Europe to become independent from the technology and politics of the United States, while all European fighters are still equipped with the American made AIM-120 AMRAAM BVR missile.
The Meteor is the first missile in the world being powered by an highly advanced ramjet propulsion system, which is developed by Bayern-Chemie of Germany, giving it outstanding kinetic energy which is up to six times stronger than on conventional air-to-air missiles.
Specifications[edit | edit source]
| Type | MBDA Meteor |
|---|---|
| Role | Beyond Visual Range AAM |
| Development time | 1997-2014 |
| Entered service date | Still in development |
| Manufacturer | MBDA, EADS, Saab Bofors Dynamics |
| Unit cost | 900,000 EUR |
| Weight | 185 kg |
| Length | 3,650 mm |
| Diameter | 178 mm |
| Warhead | High-Explosive Blast Fragmentation |
| Detonation mechanism | Impact/Proximity |
| Engine | Ramjet |
| Operational range | 100+ km |
| Maximum speed | Mach 4+ |
| Guidance system | Active radar guided |
| Platforms |
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