The Israel Military Industries (IMI) Modular Stand-off Vehicle (MSOV) glide bomb sub-munitions dispenser is scheduled to enter service later this year with an as yet unspecified air force.
The MSOV has been test launched from combat aircraft, including the Lockheed Martin F-16, with a maximum glide range of 100km (55nm) claimed by the manufacturer.
The MSOV is just under 4m long and has a wingspan of 2.7m. It can carry a 67kg payload, and total weight is 1,050kg.
The company is manufacturing a variety of submunitions, some of which remain classified by the Israeli defence ministry. IMI has confirmed that the MSOV has been adapted to carry at least four types of payload - dual purpose bomblets, combined effect bomblets, a unitary penetrator and anti-runway penetrators.
The MSOV is equipped with a global positioning system and is capable of manoeuvring in the terminal phase of an engagement to achieve the best release angle relative to the target.
Powered variants are also believed to be under consideration. A turbojet or turbofan powered version would provide a stand-off range of several hundred kilometres with a similar payload.
Source: Flight International
