1. ASTER MISSILE FAMILY VERTICALLY LAUNCHED MISSILES FOR UK, ITALY & FRANCE NAVIES 2. Introduction The Aster missile series, primarily comprising the Aster 15 and Aster 30 are a family of vertically launched surface-to-air missiles. Aster is manufactured by Eurosam, a European consortium consisting of MBDA France, MBDA Italy (combined 66%) and the Thales Group (33%). The missile is designed to intercept and destroy a wide range of air threats, such as supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles at very low altitude and fast flying, high performance aircraft or missiles. Aster is primarily operated by France, Italy, and the United Kingdom and is an integrated component of the PAAMS air-defence missile system, known in the Royal Navy as Sea Viper. 3. Key Points Extremely quick reaction times. Simultaneous multiple threat engagement. High rate of fire. 360 coverage. Unmatched agility and manoeuvrability due to combined thrust / aerodynamic. Control "PIF-PAF" providing hit to kill capability. 4. Capabilities Protection against the full spectrum of air threats: supersonic and subsonic missiles. Anti-Radiation Missiles / high divers, combat aircraft, MPAs, UAVs, helicopters. All weather capability. Extremely quick reaction time. Very high speed. 360 coverage. Active RF seeker with capability against stealthy targets. PIF-PAF control. Hit-to-Kill capability. Multiple engagement capability with high rate of fire. 5. Characteristics Aster 15 Weight: 310 kg Length: 4.2 m Diameter: 0.18 m Propulsion: Solid propellant, two-stage motor Maximum speed: Mach 3 Range: In excess of 30 km Altitude: 13 km Aster 30 Weight: 450 kg Length: 4.9 m Diameter: 0.18 m Propulsion: Solid propellant, two-stage propulsion Maximum speed: Mach 4.5 Range: In excess of 100 km Altitude: 20 km 6. References http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aster_%28missile_family%29 http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/files/aster_ds.pdf http://www.mbda-systems.com/products/maritime-superiority/aster- paams-saam/59-2/ 7. THANK YOU