Wind Demon: Israel has developed a missile to destroy Soviet and Russian air defenses
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Israel's leading aerospace concern, unveiled its new development - an air-to-surface cruise missile called Wind Demon. This missile is designed to engage various types of targets at considerable distances, however, it is positioned as a means of “defeating Soviet and Russian-type air defenses.”
Specifications and features
Wind Demon has a number of unique technical characteristics that make it a highly effective weapon for modern warfare. The missile is equipped with an electro-optical homing head, which allows it to accurately hit targets both day and night. The thermal imaging system installed on the missile ensures reliable detection and acquisition of a target in any weather conditions.
One of the key features of the Wind Demon is its effective range, reaching 200 kilometers. This allows the missile to be used to strike targets far behind the front line, which significantly expands the tactical capabilities of the military. The missile's lightweight design allows it to be launched from a variety of air platforms, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, providing flexibility in the choice of delivery vehicles.
The Wind Demon missile is capable of hitting both static and moving targets, following a pre-programmed route. This eliminates the need for real-time operator control and reduces risk to the wearer. In addition, the ability to fly at low altitudes helps the missile avoid detection and interception by enemy air defense systems. Operators can also select the speed at which the missile travels, allowing it to adapt to changing battle conditions and provide the element of surprise.
The Wind Demon warhead, weighing approximately 20 kg, provides sufficient destructive power to destroy a wide range of targets, including fortified objects and moving equipment. The missile is also compatible with a laser guidance system, which expands its ability to accurately acquire and engage targets.
Arms market and economic efficiency
Wind Demon is positioned as a cost-effective weapon for delivering precise strikes over long distances. This makes it an attractive option for the armed forces of various countries seeking to modernize their arsenals at minimal cost. High accuracy and flexibility in use allow this missile to be used in a wide variety of combat scenarios, which increases its versatility and relevance.
Representatives of IAI emphasize that Wind Demon meets the requirements of the modern weapons market, providing a reliable and effective means to perform a wide range of tasks. Lightweight design and the ability to launch from various platforms simplify the integration of the missile into existing weapons systems and ensure rapid adaptation to new combat conditions.