MBDA to launch SIMBAD-RC air defence system at Singapore Airshow

The international launch of SIMBAD-RC, the latest addition to MBDA’s range of naval air defence systems, will take place at the Singapore Air Show. SIMBAD-RC is a remote-controlled, short-range anti-air self defence system providing a highly effective capability against a comprehensive range of threats from combat aircraft and anti-ship missiles to small surface threats such as FIACs. SIMBAD-RC has been developed to meet the latest requirements of navies operating in either littoral or blue waters and is highly suited for ships with low crew numbers and for modern ship design requirements, particularly those relating to stealth and very fast craft concepts. The remotely controlled SIMBAD-RC twin launcher, deploying two Mistral 2 fire-and-forget missiles can provide the primary self defence capability on all classes of warship such as Fast Patrol Boats and large support ships for example or, alternatively, it can complement the main air defences of first rank warships such as frigates and destroyers. A single operator, working from a compact terminal located within the ship, can control two SIMBAD-RC launcher systems. With the operator not being exposed to the elements, this latest system from MBDA offers high availability in all weather and sea conditions. The basic SIMBAD-RC configuration comprises one or two lightweight, gyro-stabilised turrets equipped with a thermal camera and an optional large field of view day camera. In addition, the system includes a dedicated compact terminal (SMU-RC) which can manage up to two turrets, interfaced with the ship’s Combat System or surveillance sensors. A range of turret/SMU-RC configurations are possible depending on ship size and crew requirements.