R-Darter (missile)

Infobox Weapon
is_missile=yes
name=R-Darter


caption=
origin=
type=air-to-air missile
used_by=
manufacturer=Denel Aerospace Systems
unit_cost=
production_date=
service=mid 1990's South African Air Force
engine=Solid-fuel rocket
weight=
length=-
diameter=
wingspan=
speed=
vehicle_range=
ceiling=
altitude=
filling=
guidance=active radar homing
detonation=
launch_platform=

The R-Darter is a beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile using semi-active radar homing. It is designed and manufactured by the South African firm of Denel Aerospace Systems (formerly Kentron).

The South African air-to-air missile program benefited from cooperation with Israel during the 1980's and the R-Darter is similar to – if not a direct development of – later generations of the Israeli Python, especially the "Derby" version.cite web
url = http://www.global-defence.com/2002/missile-airborne.html
title = Missile Mission
author = Robert Hewson
accessdate = 2007-03-06
year = 2002
publisher = Global-Defence.com]

ervice

The missile armed the South African Air Force Cheetah C fighter aircraft and is expected to be retired along with it around 2010-2012 when the aircraft is replaced with the Saab JAS 39 Gripen.

The Brazilian Air Force is said to be evaluating the R-Darter for use with their F5 fighters since Denel will be selling the missiles used for the test at a low price, as they are nearing the end of their shelf-life. [cite web
url = http://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/sa/0231.htm
title = Air Force Acquiring Additional F-5s and Evaluating R-Darter Missiles for Upgraded F-5s
accessdate = 2007-03-06
year = 2006
month = January
publisher = Forecast International]

ee also

*AIM-120 AMRAAM, similar type of missile (beyond visual range)
*A-Darter, Denel's short range infrared homing missile.

References

External links

* [http://www.kentron.co.za/Home.asp?Page=airtoair Kentron R-Darter page]