ROKETSAN has unveiled the 300 ER aeroballistic missile for combat aircraft as a follow-up to the UAV-230 and UAV-122 aeroballistic missiles at IDEF25.
After the successful firing tests of the UAV-230 based on TRG-230 and UAV-122 based on TRG-122, ROKETSAN unveiled the 300 ER aeroballistic missile as the next step.
Intended for fighter jets and UCAVs, 300 ER can reach a range of 500+ km, depending on launch conditions, which goes way beyond the range of UAV-230 at 150+ km. Of course, this much difference in range would also mean 300 ER can reach equally higher speeds, perhaps approaching the hypersonic regime due to the air launch trajectory.
The missile, weighing 900 kg and measuring five meters in length, will likely carry a warhead larger than the TRG-300 guided artillery rocket, as 300 ER has a diameter of 370 mm despite the naming. Thus, a warhead weighing more than 150 kg can be assumed, judging from artillery rockets of the same diameter.
Regarding the use of onboard UCAVs, Akıncı, with its fuselage hardpoint, proven to be able to carry 2000 lb munitions, would be the most suitable. Akıncı can likely carry only one 300 ER missile, whereas an F-16 would be able to carry two.
Beyond the flashy range and speed, it is important to note that 300 ER is likely to be cheaper than full-scale air-launched cruise missiles, which reach similar ranges. This would make 300 ER a stand-off alternative, especially for fighter jets.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
