MBDA is showcasing for the first time its new MANPADS (Man Portable Air Defence System) VSHORAD (Very Short Range Air Defence) solution at Farnborough International Airshow.

As announced, the weapon system at issue is currently under development for the Italian Army and is ready to be marketed to export customers. 

The new VSHORAD missile is a supersonic, fire-and-forget, all-day interceptor, equipped by a seeker with image processing capabilities. It can target fighters, helicopters, and small drones. Its design will allow a smooth integration either on VTLM2 vehicle by IDV with Leonardo turret (as displayed on MBDA stand) or on future vehicles, equipped with automated turrets.

Being man-portable, this VSHORAD solution will be suitable for paratroops and amphibious forces, while giving a tactical advantage when mounted on military vehicles. This VSHORAD system is also expected to be integrated in Sky Warden, MBDA’s modular, scalable, and evolvable flagship system to counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). 

Also read: EUROSATORY 2022 | MBDA unveils the Sky Warden C-UAS with full sensors and weapons suite – VIDEO & Photos

The system is in development following an Italian Army operational requirement expressed last year for a very short-range man-portable air defence missile. The system characteristics and performances are fully compliant with NATO standards. 

Capitalizing on MBDA’s know-how in the design and development of air defence systems, the new missile will contribute to reinforcing the company’s offer for a European multi-layer air defence capability, ranging from very short to the future Anti-Ballistic-Hypersonic Defence.

Also read: AQUILA | MBDA to lead consortium for European interceptor against hypersonic threats