The Fire Shadow weapon system has successfully completed a series of demonstration trials and two more successful firings in a ground-breaking rapid development programme that was launched in March 2010. These achievements pave the way for a planned entry into service next year with the British Army.

The first of these firings, using a complete weapon system, was carried out on November 21, 2010 at Vidsel, Sweden, to demonstrate system integration, launch, stable flight, waypoint navigation and data-link function which supports the maturation of the munition and its control. The munition flew for several tens of kilometres and its trajectory included a number of manoeuvres, such as a loitering pattern. All objectives were satisfied and the trial was witnessed by UK customer representatives, said a press release.

The second firing at the same location took place on May 13, 2011. A more complex trial scenario was conducted where the man-in-the-loop functionality was fully exercised. The operator was able to select and successfully engage a representative target. The trial was another complete success, underlining the performance and robustness of the product.

Throughout the programme MBDA has continued to work closely with the End User and other stakeholders. Various “hands-on” trials at MBDA integration facilities at Filton and Bedford have enabled the Army personnel to tailor the “look and feel” of the system, to refine Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) and to prepare for formal training later this year. The system was also demonstrated to operate seamlessly within a modern battlespace HQ context at the Coalition Warrior Interoperability Demonstration event.

Steve Wadey, Executive Group Director Technical and MBDA UK Managing Director said: “Fire Shadow fills a gap in the capabilities needed by the Armed Forces as ongoing operations show every day. From the outset the Fire Shadow programme has been leading by example with its rapid development approach. The incredible rate of technical achievement and progress means that this unrivalled capability will be ready for delivery to the UK early next year. The system’s potential is such that it lends itself to new roles and has been designed to adapt and evolve to ensure that weapon provides an operational edge now and for the future.”