This article is published in Aerospace Daily & Defense Report part of Aviation Week Intelligence Network (AWIN), and is complimentary through Dec 04, 2024. For information on becoming an AWIN Member to access more content like this, click here.

Elbit Flags International Interest In Rampage Missile

Israel Air Force F-16 equipped with Rampage

Rampage missiles have been fitted on Israel Air Force F-16s.

Credit: Israel Air Force

Elbit Systems says it is fielding interest from potential export buyers for its Rampage air-launched ballistic missile.

The company said one of the drivers of the demand is the company's willingness to adapt the weapon for use on different platforms. Elbit did not identify the potential buyers or what new aircraft type the weapon might be integrated on. Elbit has tested the long-range air-to-surface missile, firing it from the Lockheed Martin F-16 with the Israel Air Force.

Elbit advertises the 580-kg (1,250-lb.) Rampage missile as being able to fly at Mach 5 once deployed from the aircraft with an impact velocity of up to 550 meter-per-second. The 4.7-meter-long (15-ft.-long) missile is powered by a solid rocket motor and uses GPS and inertial navigation system guidance.

“Many militaries worldwide, especially those with significant air forces, recognize that despite the growing threat of drones and UAVs, there is no substitute for the powerful strike of a ballistic missile launched from a fighter jet,” Elbit said in a Nov. 25 social media post.

Rampage initially was designed to counter long-range surface-to-air missile systems, Elbit said, but is now also being marketed to target air bases, munitions hubs and logistics centers.

Robert Wall

Robert Wall is Executive Editor for Defense and Space. Based in London, he directs a team of military and space journalists across the U.S., Europe and Asia-Pacific.