French Carrier Tests SAM Systems

Defence Aerospace

Operational Practice Firing of the Charles de Gaulle Aircraft Carrier Self-Defence System

(Source: Eurosam; dated May 25, issued June 1, 2005)

On 25 May 2005, the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier conducted another operational practice firing of its SAAM-FR antimissile self-defence system.

The purpose of this firing was to engage a high subsonic anti-ship target with a salvo of 2 Aster 15 equipped with warheads. All the objectives of this firing were achieved.

Once again, the system demonstrated its outstanding precision, with a direct hit of the target engaged by the Aster 15 missile.

This firing is the latest in a 100%-successful series of SAAM-FR practice firings using the Aster 15, including in particular, in 2004, a firing from the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier in December, and one firing from each of the 3 frigates in the SAWARI II programme, on 23 March, 7 September and 29 September 2004, respectively.

Besides the SAAM-FR system (the SAAM-FR on the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier is made up of a fire control system comprising the Arabal radar and SYLVER vertical launchers associated with the Aster 15 missile), Eurosam presents a family of naval systems designed to carry out different missions to meet new-generation threats:

-- The SAAM, in its Italian configuration, SAAM-IT (SAAM-IT is made up of a fire control system comprising the EMPAR radar and SYLVER vertical launchers associated with the Aster 15 missile) has also completed its qualification programme; the “Cavour” aircraft carrier will be the first ship to be fitted with it.

--The PAAMS (Principal Anti-Air Missile System) is made up of a fire control system comprising the EMPAR radar and SYLVER vertical launchers associated with the Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles) will be installed on the Horizon Franco-Italian frigates to provide self-protection and area defence.