SCALP Missile:
In Operation Sindoor, SCALP missiles were reportedly launched from Indian Rafale jets to strike deep-terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK.
- The SCALP missile, also known by its British name, ‘Storm Shadow’, is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile.
- It is conventionally armed and used for deep strike missions against high-value, fixed or stationary targets.
- Its full name, Systeme de Croisiere Autonome a Longue Portee, underscores its role as an autonomous, extended-range strike weapon.
- It is jointly developed by the United Kingdom and France.
- It is also in service with the air forces of Egypt, India, Italy, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- It has a range of around 500 km.
- Weighing 1,300 kg, it carries a 450 kg conventional warhead capable of penetrating hardened bunkers.
- It is around five metres long and has a wingspan of three metres.
- Flying at subsonic speeds (around Mach 0.8) and low altitudes, it uses terrain-following navigation, GPS/INS guidance, and infrared terminal homing for high accuracy.
- These features allow it to fly at low altitudes to evade enemy radar
- As it approaches its target, the missile’s infrared guidance system compares the target with preloaded images to ensure high accuracy and minimise collateral damage.
- Designed for stealth and precision, the SCALP is capable of operating in any weather conditions.
- Launch platform: India integrates SCALP with the Rafale fighter jets, which are currently operated by the Indian Air Force.
