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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[]

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