A 1:2 scale model of MBDA's RD-120 Raijin RCA, as displayed by the company at Euronaval 2024 in Paris, France. (Andrew White)
MBDA has expanded its family of tactical loitering munition systems with its latest offering showcased at the Euronaval 2024 exhibition, held in Paris from 4 to 7 November.
The RD-120 Raijin was displayed at the event for the first time, featuring an innovative rhomboidal or diamond-shaped wing design.
Designed by an MBDA joint venture (JV) with drone manufacturer Fly-R, the recoverable and reusable RD-120 is the latest product to join the company's family of remote-controlled ammunition (RCA) loitering munitions, which are currently being considered by France's Direction Générale de L'armement (DGA). MBDA's Colibri and Larinae RCAs are competing against designs by KNDS France to support short- and long-range requirements of the French Army.
Speaking to Janes at Euronaval, an MBDA official said the RD-120 would complement the quadrotor Colibri and fixed-wing Larinae RCAs.
The rhomboidal shape of the RD-120 RCA would provide “improved accuracy, reduced drag, and increased endurance” for end-users, he said, particularly when compared with alternative wing designs currently available in the market.
Measuring 1.5 m in length and with a maximum take-off weight of 5 kg, the RD-120 has the capacity to carry 1.5 kg in payload. However, MBDA confirmed to Janes it was still undertaking a study regarding the development of a multi-effect warhead for this particular RCA.
With 45 minutes of endurance, the electrically propelled RCA has a cruising speed of 110 km/h and dash/attack speed of 270 km/h.
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