Following the initiation of the low-cost cruise missile ERAM, the U.S. is interested in developing an air-to-air variant, particularly to counter UAVs.
The War Zone reports that the ERAM cruise missile, intended as a more affordable alternative to existing cruise missiles like JASSM or LRASM, might also be developed into an air-to-air missile.
USAF officials stated that a new capability under the title Fixed Wing, Air-Launched, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Ordnance (FALCO) for ERAM is being considered for the ERAM family.
In mid-2024, an RFP describing ERAM as an affordable air-launched stand-off munition with a range of 250 nm and a weight of 500 lb was published.
FALCO might be a conversion kit for the ERAM consisting of a different guidance package, just like the recently proposed anti-ship guidance package that will likely consist of the Quicksink seeker for Mk-8x bombs combining a small IIR seeker and an RF seeker.
It is assumed that FALCO’s guidance system will consist of an EO/IR seeker, a data link for mid-course guidance, and loitering capability. The missile might be useful for closely packed salvoes of smaller UAVs or larger and higher-flying UCAVs. Additionally, slow-flying manned platforms like cargo aircraft and helicopters might be included in FALCO’s envelope.
TUSAŞ is studying a similar idea for its Süper Şimşek UAV, which will perform a variety of roles, including target, decoy, stand-in jammer, reconnaissance, light cruise missile, and air-to-air missile. TUSAŞ’s brochure describes the air-to-air missile configuration as having a HE-FRAG warhead and IIR seeker.
