Sweden Expands Air Defense with Meteor Missiles
Sweden has officially contracted MBDA UK to enhance its air defense capabilities by acquiring additional Meteor active radar-guided missiles designed for the JAS 39 Gripen C/D supersonic combat aircraft. Having already been operational within the Swedish military since 2016, these missiles are integral to the Gripen, Rafale, and Eurofighter fleets. This latest procurement will see the delivery of more Meteor warheads scheduled for this year.
Martin Anderberg, Head of Combat Aircraft Systems at the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, highlighted the significance of this acquisition. He stated, “The additional procurement of Meteor is part of further enhancing the Swedish Armed Forces’ air defense capabilities both nationally and as part of NATO.” This marks the third additional order placed by the Defence Materiel Administration specifically for the Swedish Armed Forces, underscoring Sweden’s commitment to bolstering its defense strategy.
Advanced Technology of Meteor Missiles
The Meteor missiles are a product of a joint development effort involving Sweden, the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Known as the Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) system, the Meteor exhibits remarkable capabilities functioning as a ‘wingman’ to aircraft, engaging directly with a plane’s sensors and support systems. This allows it to effectively scan and neutralize incoming airborne threats.
Upon engaging a target, Meteor deploys a high-explosive multi-shot fragmentation effect, which enables it to destroy multiple threats in quick succession. The missile is powered by a solid-fuel ramjet, enabling it to reach impressive cruise speeds of over Mach 4 (4,939 kilometers or 3,069 miles per hour). Such speed dramatically reduces its vulnerability to interception by conventional countermeasures.
Specifications and Range of Meteor Missiles
Weighing in at 190 kilograms (419 pounds) and measuring 3.7 meters (12.1 feet) in length, the Meteor missile features a diameter of 178 millimeters (7 inches). Its operational range is notable, extending up to 200 kilometers (124 miles), which further enhances the Swedish military’s long-range strike capabilities against potential airborne threats.
The Meteor’s sophisticated technology and impressive specifications not only reinforce Sweden’s defense capabilities but also contribute to NATO’s collective security efforts. As global air threats evolve, such advancements in air defense systems are crucial for maintaining operational superiority.
