UK Unveils Raven 5 Air Defense System With Four ASRAAM Missiles

The United Kingdom has unveiled a new version of the Raven 5 air defense system, equipped with four ASRAAM missiles.

According to a post by JonHawkes275 on X, the system, like earlier versions, is mounted on the Moog Flexible Mission Platform (FMP), which provides full 360-degree targeting.

Unlike previous variants with a fixed launcher, the new system features a rotating combat module capable of turning a full 360 degrees.

This allows the missiles to be fired in any direction without having to reposition the entire vehicle.

This setup improves the ASRAAM missile’s efficiency when intercepting targets.

With fixed launchers, the missile has to spend some of its thrust turning toward the target right after launch.

This is especially problematic when engaging targets coming from the sides or rear.

A rotating launcher solves this issue by allowing immediate alignment with the target, reducing reaction time and extending the effective interception range.

The ASRAAM is a British air-to-air missile that has been adapted for ground-based launches.

Earlier it was stated that Raven systems are already in use in Ukraine to defend against aerial threats.

The new version is likely a further development of this concept, offering greater mobility and improved performance.

Such systems can strengthen the protection of troops and critical infrastructure against drones and cruise missiles.

In January, it was reported that the United Kingdom is preparing new deliveries of Raven air defense systems for Ukraine, although it is not yet known whether the updated Raven 5 will be included.