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
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