Thales launches RAPIDFire, its new mobile air defence gun system

Eurosatory -- At Eurosatory, Thales is unveiling RAPIDFire, a new multiweapon air defence system. RAPIDFire forms part of the recently launched new package of Advanced Air Defence solutions from Thales that incorporates everything from complete airspace security solutions, command and control, weapon coordination, air surveillance radars down to the mobile integrated weapon systems.

RAPIDFire combines the CONTROLMaster 60 surveillance radar with the CONTROLView command and control module. These are integrated with the multi-sensor stabilised optronic sighting system and the CT40 gun from CTAI, an international subsidiary of Nexter and BAe Systems. This mobile, multi-role weapon system is designed to respond to the new threats being encountered by armed forces today and in particular the low cost targets which can attack in swarms and can saturate conventional missile defences. With its powerful antiaircraft gun, high performace 3D radar and versatile C2 module, RAPIDFire is optimized to defeat all types of air threats including Fighter Ground Attack (FGA), helicopters or Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) and cruise missiles or precision guided munitions.

The RAPIDFire system has also been designed to enable firing of the STARStreak missile system, a Very Short Range Air Defence missile system with a speed in excess of Mach 3 and a range of around 7km. The combination of six STARStreak missiles and the latest generation 40mm cased telescope ammunition ensure both precision attack and high firepower. Optronic sensors have been integrated directly into the turret thereby ensuring that the RAPIDFire can operate autonomously if required. Using various types of ammunitions, RAPIDFire can also be used against ground targets, including armoured platforms, to ensure the self protection of the system

Speaking from Eurosatory in Paris Alex Cresswell, SVP Land Defence Division said, "I am very excited to be introducing this new product at Eurosatory. RAPIDFire’s combination of mobility with fast into action time and precision attack provides the perfect response for protecting troops on the move. RAPIDFire will be a key element in our extensive package of Advanced Air Defence solutions for many years to come.”

With this new system, Thales has further demonstrated its ingenuity as aSystems Integrator and has reinforced its position as the leader in mobile integrated weapon systems. To date, over 450 RAPID family mobile integrated weapon systems have been delivered to customers worldwide.

Thales remains the only company in Europe to be able to offer a comprehensive air defence solution spanning the entire chain of operations, from sensors to effectors.