AUSTRALIA HAS short-listed the Rafael Popeye and Rockwell AGM-130 missiles as contenders for its future air-to-surface stand off weapon purchase.
The two systems are under consideration for the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) Air 5398 requirement to enhance its strike capability. The selected weapon will initially be fitted to the RAAF's fleet of upgraded General Dynamics F-111C/Gs and possibly its McDonnell Douglas F-18s.
A final decision is expected before the end of 1995, say industry sources. The Australian defence department's latest five-year forward equipment-procurement plan calls for delivery of the first weapon systems in financial year 1996-7
Initial funding for the purchase of a limited number of weapons, together with the establishment of a stand-off-strike training capability, is expected to be included in the FY1995-6 defence budget. A larger follow-on purchase is planned for FY1996-7, with additional smaller purchases through to the year 2001.
The AGM-130 version being offered to the RAAF is fitted with the improved-penetration 910kg BLU-109/B warhead and will feature interchangeable television or infrared seekers. The system is compatible with the GBU-15 interface being fitted to the F-111C as part of the RAAF's avionics upgrade of the aircraft.
Israel's Popeye proposal is believed to be based on the AGM-142 version in service with the US Air Force, fitted to the Boeing B-53H bomber. Australian defence minister Robert Ray is expected to visit Israel in late April for further discussions with Rafael.
Source: Flight International