SCALP Missile
09.05.2025
SCALP Missile
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For Prelims: About SCALP Missile, Features of the Missile |
Why in the news?
In Operation Sindoor, SCALP missiles were reportedly launched from Indian Rafale jets to strike deep-terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.
About SCALP Missile:
- The SCALP missile, also known by its British name, ‘Storm Shadow’, is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile.
- It is conventionally armed and used for deep strike missions against high-value, fixed or stationary targets.
- Its full name, Systeme de Croisière Autonome à Longue Portee, underscores its role as an autonomous, extended-range strike weapon.
- It is jointly developed by the United Kingdom and France.
- It is also in service with the air forces of Egypt, India, Italy, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Features of the Missile:
- It has a range of around 500 km.
- Weighing 1,300 kg, it carries a 450 kg conventional warhead capable of penetrating hardened bunkers.
- It is around five metres long and has a wingspan of three metres.
- Flying at subsonic speeds (around Mach 0.8) and low altitudes, it uses terrain-following navigation, GPS/INS guidance, and infrared terminal homing for high accuracy.
- These features allow it to fly at low altitudes to evade enemy radar
- As it approaches its target, the missile’s infrared guidance system compares the target with preloaded images to ensure high accuracy and minimise collateral damage.
- Designed for stealth and precision, the SCALP is capable of operating in any weather conditions.
- Launch platform: India integrates SCALP with the Rafale fighter jets, which are currently operated by the Indian Air Force.
Source: The Economic Times
Consider the following statements with reference to SCALP Missile:
1.It is jointly developed by the United Kingdom and France
2.It is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile.
3.t has a range of around 500 km.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
A.Only one
B.Only two
C.All three
D.None
Answer C