Indonesia receives initial batch of AR-2 small diameter missiles from China

  

The AR-2 small diameter air-to-ground missile. Photo c/o CCTV News.


British defense media outlet Jane’s reported that they received information and images from sources confirming the delivery of Chinese-made AR-2 air-to-ground missiles for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU).


The missiles, which arrived at the TNI-AU’s Iswahyudi Air Force Base on 08 April 2021, are intended for the service’s fleet of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) CH-4B Rainbow medium altitude long endurance (MALE) unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAV).


Aside from the missiles, the delivery also included an undisclosed number of missile pylons and rail launchers.


The AR-2 missile uses an internal guidance system for mid-course updates, while also using semi-active laser seeker for terminal homing. It has a range of around 8 kilometers weighs 20 kilograms, and carries a 5-kilogram armor piecing warhead.


The missile is ideal against light armored vehicles, bunkers, personnel and light structures.


The TNI-AU currently has six CH-4 UAVs, which made their first public debut in September 2019 as it joined the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) Exercise Dharma Yudha.


The CH-4B has a maximum range between 1,500 to 2,000 kilometers, and can be operated via satellite link. It also has provisions for up to six munitions with a payload of up to 345 kilograms.  


In the Southeast Asian region, Myanmar also operates the type aside from Indonesia. 





[1] Jane’s

[2] Shephard Media

Indonesia receives initial batch of AR-2 small diameter missiles from China Indonesia receives initial batch of AR-2 small diameter missiles from China Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal on April 19, 2021 Rating: 5

No comments