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| LCA Tejas cleared to carry Python-5 air-to-air missile |
International Military - Israel has a new fifth generation guided missile, namely the Python 5. This missile was first demonstrated in 2003, more precisely during the air show at Le Bourget.
Python 5 features a new dual-band thermal seeker, and digital autopilot integrated with INS. Digital autopilot with signal processor implements complex flight control algorithms. Not only that, it can also significantly improve protection against IR interference.
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Quoted from Bulgarian Military, the presence of INS provides the possibility of hitting targets in any hemisphere. Thus, the possibility of firing without first capturing the target with the direct target designation of the NSC is realized.
The missiles can be launched anywhere. Call it the CASA C-101 Aviojet, F-4E Kurnass 2000, F-5E/F Tiger-II, McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, to the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon.
Then, there are also Dassault Mirage III, Dassault Mirage 5, Dassault Mirage 2000, IAI Nesher/Dagger/Finger, IAI Kfir, BAE Sea Harrier, HAL Tejas, SAAB Gripen NG, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Su-25KM Scorpion.
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Specs, the Python has a length of 3,096 m, 160 mm and a wingspan of 640 mm. The engine is a dual mode turbojet engine. Meanwhile, the homing infrared guidance system + 320x240 pixels dual waveband electro-optical imaging seeker, locks on after launch, with infrared counter-counter-measures (IRCCM).
The Python 5 is a dual-use missile suitable for air-to-air and surface-to-air missions. According to Airforce Technology, the Python-5 integrates a fifth-generation image finder, modern software, advanced infrared countermeasures (IRCCM) and a flight control system.
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Python 5 also features lock-on-before launch (LOBL) and lock-on-after launch (LOAL) capabilities. In LOAL mode, target information is transmitted from the launcher to the missile.
The missile offers a high hit probability and excellent resistance to countermeasures. These missiles can even strike targets capable of evasive maneuvers.