Taurus KEPD 350 Cruise Missile Maintenance and Upgrades
Saab has secured a substantial contract for the maintenance and modernization of the Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile utilized by the German Air Force. This agreement, worth 1.7 billion Swedish kronor (approximately $161 million), spans a decade and was awarded following a decision by Taurus Systems, a collaboration between MBDA Germany and Saab. The contract, placed by the German defense procurement agency BAAINBw, includes comprehensive upgrades alongside extensive lifecycle maintenance.
Gorgen Johansson, head of Saab’s Dynamics division, emphasized the significance of these upgrades, stating that the Taurus KEPD 350 is designed to engage targets effectively over long distances, which is vital for complex air operations. The modernization efforts will greatly enhance the operational capabilities of the German Air Force, ensuring their missile systems remain at the forefront of military technology.
Previous Contracts and Procurement Plans
In a related development, MBDA has also been awarded a contract aimed at sustaining the air-launched missile’s operational readiness until 2045. This earlier agreement indicates a long-term commitment to enhancing the performance and reliability of the Taurus missile systems. Concurrently, the German Ministry of Defense is reportedly contemplating the procurement of 600 upgraded Taurus missiles, referred to as Taurus Neo.
The anticipated procurement involves a budget of 2.1 billion euros (around $2.18 billion), with deliveries set to commence in 2029. These advanced variants are expected to feature cutting-edge technology, including an automated terrain reference sensor that enhances functionality in environments where GPS signals may be unavailable.
Specifications and Capabilities of the Taurus Missile
The Taurus KEPD 350 is specifically engineered to target a range of static and semi-stationary ground threats, which include fortified and high-value objectives. With an impressive operational range of 500 kilometers (approximately 311 miles), this missile boasts remarkable capabilities that are critical for military operations.
One of the standout features of the Taurus missile system is its dual-stage warhead, weighing in at 480 kilograms (1,100 pounds). The unique design incorporates a pre-charge that assists the main warhead in penetrating a target’s defenses before detonating at a pre-defined depth. Furthermore, the missile is equipped with terrain-hugging technology, allowing it to fly at low altitudes to effectively evade enemy air defenses.
