Description:
Denel Aerospace Systems' Ingwe is a medium to long range, laser beam-riding guided, anti-tank/anti-armor missile developed to meet the requirements of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). It was designed for launch from ground vehicles and attack helicopters and is jamming-resistant. It features a tandem shaped charge warhead capable of neutralizing a wide range of armored targets. The missile system is undergoing a continuous improvement program aiming at providing new capabilities.
In 2002, Denel implement a series of improvements enhancing Ingwe's performance under high launch dynamics which translates into launch from an attack helicopter on the move at various altitudes. During the validation tests, the Ingwe was fired at launch speeds in excess of 200 km/h (120 mph). The tests also included firings with the helicopter maneuvering after launch and at various altitudes. In 2004, a similar capability was demonstrated from ground vehicles on the move.
In May 2005, Denel Aerospace Systems introduced a new improved programmer which enables the latest software updates to be downloaded easily and quickly onto the missile. In addition, the improved Ingwe is now capable of recognizing the platform from it is being launched and therefore optimizing the software functions ruling the missile's trajectory. This capability will enable Denel to market a single missile body for both in land and airborne applications.
To date, the Ingwe anti-armor missile system has been integrated into the Rooivalk attack helicopter and the Ratel infantry combat vehicle operated by the South African Armed Forces. As of June 2005, Denel was clearing the Ingwe cross-fire mode which will enable up to four missiles to be fired simultaneously.
Specifications Performance: Max Range 5,400 m (17,717 ft), Min Range 250 m (820 ft), Piercing in Armor 1,000 mm (39.37 in)
Operators
South Africa
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Notes (*) lead contractor
IOC: Initial Operating Capability
FOC: Full Operating Capability
CEP: Circular Error Probable
Comm: Commissioning Date
Meters (m) Kilometers (km) Nautic Miles (nm) Inch (in) Yard (yd) Foot (ft) Millimeter (mm)
Pound (lb) Kilogram (kg) kN (KiloNewton) Ton (t)
Meters per Second (mps) Kilometers per Hour (kph) Knot (kt) Miles per Hour (mph)
Liter (l) Galon (gl)
Year (yr) Minutes (min) Second (sec)
Shaft-Horse-Power (shp)
South Africa