Crotale Mk3 demonstration firings
At the CELM missile launch test centre in Biscarrosse, southwest France, on 31 January 2008 at 14:50 CET, the Crotale Mk3 missile system destroyed a target flying at an altitude of 500 metres and a range of almost 15 000 metres in less than 35 seconds.
This test campaign was conducted to demonstrate the functionality and performance of the Crotale Mk3 missile system, and in particular its autonomy, intercept range and reaction time, and the ability for the operator to retain control of the situation at all times.
The makers say that the Crotale Mk3 system is inherently suitable for integration within a broader air defence network, while also offering the autonomy needed for individual platforms to maintain surveillance, engage targets and fire missiles alone. The system offers an intercept of 15 km. The short reaction times of the Crotale Mk3 system and VT1 missile provide excellent all-round performance from threat detection through to intercept. The Crotale Mk3 system guarantees that the operator remains in control of the situation and manages the surrounding airspace throughout the engagement phase.
The campaign began at the CELM test facility on 15 January with the destruction of a Banshee target at an altitude of 970 metres and a range of almost 8,000 metres in 11 seconds. On both occasions, the target was destroyed by a near direct impact by the VT1 missile.