Israeli armaments company Rafael has launched efforts to export its Black Sparrow airborne ballistic missile target.
Developed as part of the Arrow anti-tactical ballistic missile programme, the Black Sparrow is based on Rafael's AGM-142 Popeye air-to-ground missile.
The Black Sparrow is equipped with a larger rocket motor than the AGM-142. It is 4.2m (13.8ft) long and 0.52m in diameter and weighs 1,260kg (2,785lb) - about 100kg less than Popeye. The target is carried by Boeing F-15-sized aircraft and launched from 42,000ft (12,800m).
Once dropped, it freefalls for 6s before the motor is ignited. After a 25s motor burn, the missile simulates the ballistic trajectory of a typical surface-to-surface weapon.
The missile simulates the ballistic trajectory of a typical surface-to-surface weapon, unlike the downgraded Arrow missiles used in earlier tests. Different "warheads" simulate explosive or chemical payloads.
Rafael is negotiating with the US Space Command and with the US Navy.
Source: Flight International