A-Darter AAM
The V3E A-Darter, also known as V3E Agile Darter is a fifth-generation short-range air-to-air missile (SRAAM) developed for modern fighter aircraft. Designed to provide advanced dogfighting capabilities, it features high agility, imaging infrared (IIR) guidance, and off-boresight targeting. The A-Darter significantly enhances the close-combat effectiveness of air forces, offering a competitive edge in modern aerial engagements.
After extensive testing and qualification, the missile entered limited production in the late 2010s. As of 2024, production numbers remain limited, with initial batches delivered to the South African and Brazilian air forces. The missile is intended for integration on platforms such as the Saab JAS 39 Gripen and Embraer F-39E/F Gripen.
The missile is constructed from lightweight, heat-resistant materials to withstand high-G maneuvers and supersonic flight.
Avionics & Guidance
The missile employs a dual-band imaging infrared (IIR) seeker, offering high resistance to countermeasures and the ability to lock onto targets at high off-boresight angles (up to 90°). It supports lock-on after launch (LOAL) and lock-on before launch (LOBL) modes, and is fully compatible with helmet-mounted display systems (HMDS).
Armament
The A-Darter carries a high-explosive fragmentation warhead, optimized for air target destruction. The warhead is equipped with a laser proximity fuze for increased kill probability.
Operational History
The A-Darter has been integrated onto the South African Air Force’s JAS 39 Gripen C/D and is undergoing integration with the Brazilian Air Force’s F-39E/F Gripen. As of 2024, the missile has not been used in combat but has participated in numerous live-fire and evaluation exercises. Both South Africa and Brazil have reported successful test firings and initial operational capability. No export customers or combat deployments have been confirmed.
- countermeasures resistance with a 180-degree look angle and 120-degrees per second track rate
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