The Python 4 made by Israeli missile-manufacturer Rafael is claimed to be the world's first "see and kill" air-to-air missile, offering almost a 100% chance of a successful engagement if the pilot sees the target, say sources.
New details reveal that the missile, which may have been in low-rate production for the Israeli air force since 1990, is 3m long, has a wingspan of 500mm and a diameter of 160mm. The Python 4 weighs 106kg and, powered by a solid-fuelled motor, has a range of 15km (8nm). A two-colour stabilised all-aspect seeker is used.
The high probability of a successful engagement, is provided by the seeker and the missile's agility, the latter thought, to be aided by the use of long chord wings. To engage a target, even at very high off-bore-sight angles, the pilot simply has to look at it through his helmet-mounted display.
The Python 4, alongside the British Aerospace/Hughes Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile, could be a contender for the US AIM-9X requirement, if the Pentagon allows foreigners to bid. The USAir Force and US Navy have chosen Raytheon and Hughes to demonstrate and validate seekers and infrared trackers for the new missile.
Source: Flight International