The Spanish Ministry of Defense has allocated almost one million euros (950,000 euros) for the development of an advanced air defense system. This ambitious project is led by the Spanish company Instalaza, together with a team of companies such as Spanish Missile Systems (SMS), Escribano and the National Institute of Aerospace Technology (INTA). The goal is to create a prototype surface-to-air micromissile capable of intercepting drones (RPAS) and stray munitions. This initiative was selected within the framework of the COINCIDENT 2023 program of the Directorate General of Armaments and Materials (DGAM).
This type of weapon has a key application in modern scenarios, where the proliferation of drones and errant munitions poses a significant challenge to the defense of infrastructure and troops on the move. The prototype developed by Instalaza seeks to offer a compact and effective defense solution, which works on both land, naval and air platforms.
Technical characteristics of the micromissile: a compact and precise system
The design of the micromissile follows specific requirements that guarantee its effectiveness and ease of use. These are some of the main features that define this innovative device:
Optimized dimensions and weight: Its compact dimensions, with a caliber of approximately 90 mm, and its low weight allow for easy handling and use on multiple platforms.
Range and precision: The micromissile is designed to hit mobile or static targets at a range of up to 1.5km, making it effective at intercepting drones and stray munitions up to 200kg.
Advanced propulsion: Instalaza has developed a rocket motor that ensures adequate thrust vectoring for launch and maneuverability of the missile in flight.
Driving and navigation: The system has initial inertial navigation and its trajectory is adapted towards the target through a correction system. Furthermore, a proximity sensor has been integrated to ensure the detonation of the charge at the right time.
Fragmentary warhead: The missile incorporates a fragmentation charge specially designed for aerial targets, thus ensuring the effective neutralization of drones and munitions upon impact.
Roles and responsibilities of each development participant
Instalaza leads the project in terms of propulsion, flight control, warhead design and launch tube development. Escribano, for his part, is responsible for the semi-active laser guidance system (SAL), a targeting technology that guarantees great precision. Both companies will work together on the integration and validation of the complete system. Systems engineering and final integration into the platforms will fall to SMS, while INTA will provide technical support in propulsion and platform integration. The collaboration between these entities aims to create a complete and robust defense system, ready to face emerging threats on the battlefield.
Possible improvements and continuous research
This project also includes conceptual studies to incorporate future improvements. One of the most important investigations is the development of a guidance system based on SAR (synthetic aperture radar) and infrared (IR) radar, which could replace the SAL guidance system and offer greater autonomy in detecting targets. Likewise, the possibility of replacing lithium ion batteries with thermal batteries is being evaluated, which could improve autonomy and reduce the weight of the system.
Another aspect of the research involves expanding the range of action of the micromissile, which in future versions could exceed 1.5 km, thus expanding the protection radius. methods of physical and functional integration into remotely controlled weapon stations, including land, naval and air platforms, are being studied.
Impact and relevance of the micromissile in modern defense
This micromissile represents a significant advance in defense against drones and loitering munitions, technologies increasingly present in modern conflicts. These devices represent versatile threats that can penetrate conventional defenses, making it essential to have specialized solutions to neutralize them.
This development also strengthens the Spanish defense industry, demonstrating how collaboration between national companies and organizations can lead to the creation of advanced technologies in the field of security and defense. In the current context, where unmanned threats are increasingly sophisticated and accessible, Instalaza’s surface-to-air micromissile represents a high-level response, adapted to the operational needs of the Armed Forces and with the potential to position itself on the international market.
Conclusions
This project by Instalaza and its partners reflects Spain’s commitment to defense innovation, while setting an example of how strategic collaborations can strengthen the country’s military capability. This micromissile is proving to be a crucial tool in the fight against emerging threats, combining precision, portability and effectiveness in a system designed to protect strategic and operational assets from ever-evolving drones and stray munitions.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Defense Technology Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into the exciting advancements in air defense technology, particularly focusing on Spain’s recent investment in a new micromissile system. Joining us is Dr. Elena Ruiz, a leading expert in defense technology and aerospace systems. Thank you for being here, Dr. Ruiz.
Dr. Ruiz: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. The Spanish Ministry of Defense has allocated almost one million euros for this new air defense system led by Instalaza. What does this investment signify for Spain’s military capabilities?
Dr. Ruiz: This investment is a significant step forward for Spain, particularly in addressing modern threats like drones and errant munitions. With the increase in drone technology, having an advanced and agile air defense system is crucial not just for protecting infrastructure but also for safeguarding troops. It shows a commitment to enhancing national security and modernizing their military assets.
Editor: Absolutely. The prototype is designed to intercept drones and stray munitions. How does the technology employed in this micromissile set it apart from other defense systems on the market?
Dr. Ruiz: This micromissile stands out due to its optimized dimensions and weight, making it versatile for deployment across land, sea, and air platforms. Its design allows for effective handling and rapid response. Additionally, with a range of up to 1.5 km, it can effectively target various threats, including drones weighing up to 200 kg. The inclusion of advanced propulsion systems and a fragmentary warhead specifically designed for aerial threats enhances its operational capabilities.
Editor: The collaborative effort of different companies plays a vital role in this project. How do you see the contributions from companies like Escribano and SMS impacting the final product?
Dr. Ruiz: Collaboration is key in complex defense projects like this. Instalaza’s focus on propulsion and warhead design, paired with Escribano’s expertise in laser guidance systems, will yield a more precise and effective missile. SMS’s integration of systems engineering ensures that all components work cohesively, leading to a robust and reliable air defense solution. The synergy among these companies is crucial for creating a cutting-edge system capable of meeting today’s defense needs.
Editor: Interesting! The article mentions potential future improvements like integrating a SAR and infrared radar system. How could these enhancements affect the micromissile’s performance?
Dr. Ruiz: Incorporating SAR and IR technologies could significantly improve the missile’s autonomy and target detection capabilities. These systems would not only enhance targeting precision but also allow the micromissile to engage with targets more effectively, especially in diverse operational environments. This would be a major leap forward compared to the current semi-active laser guidance system, potentially making it a leader in the market.
Editor: It sounds like there are still many avenues for research and development. What challenges do you think the developers will face in creating this advanced system?
Dr. Ruiz: One of the primary challenges will be ensuring all components are effectively integrated and can work together in real-time, especially under combat conditions. Testing and validation of the missile’s various systems—propulsion, guidance, and warhead effectiveness—will require rigorous trials. Additionally, balancing the system’s size and weight with its capabilities is crucial, as any increase could hinder its practicality.
Editor: Thank you for that insight, Dr. Ruiz. It’s clear that we are at the edge of significant advancements in defense technology. In your opinion, how does this project reflect the broader trends in military technology development?
Dr. Ruiz: This project is emblematic of a global shift towards more agile and precision-based military technologies. As threats become more asymmetric, with smaller, more mobile systems like drones proliferating, nations must adapt their defense strategies accordingly. We’re likely to see more emphasis on collaborative development efforts, multi-platform systems, and advanced targeting capabilities, which this initiative exemplifies perfectly.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ruiz, for sharing your expertise with us. It’s fascinating to hear about these developments and their implications for future military operations.
Dr. Ruiz: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time in defense technology, and I look forward to seeing how these innovations unfold.