ASRAAM Integration?
Navaleye,
Seems someone has been reading the ASRAAM glossy sales brochure. In open forum I can't list all technical points but:
"ASRAAM" is plug and play compatible with AIM-9M launchers". Yes, if all you want is a fast, leggy 9L then that's close - but not 100%. There is also the weapon system behind the launcher that supplies release/steering signals to the missile.
Then there's the aiming cues - the missile goes further, so you can shoot sooner - just a simple software change? Depends on how accurate you want that cue.
These are the kind of integration areas that soon increase costs.
9L is an analogue device dating back many years. ASRAAM was designed with a compatible (not plug and play) connector in front.
The glossy brochure features of ASRAAM require use of the digital interface this is further aft on the missile, on a LAU-7 this connector is covered by launcher structure.
This became obvious (doh!) when people expressed an interest in the additional "features" only to be told their "compatible" launcher did not support the digital (1760 like) interface.
E.g "The missile can be fired at very high off-boresight angles" - yes it can - but NOT using the Sidewinder legacy interface; this requires digital control.
The list goes on, but would reqire a more controlled (secure) forum for debate.
regards to all,