NEW DELHI (Agencies): The Indian Air Force (IAF) is augmenting its weaponry with the integration of the Rampage, a supersonic, long-range air-to-ground missile developed by Elbit Systems, as announced by the Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).
The Rampage, a stand-off weapon (SoW) proficient in targeting high-value assets, is anticipated to significantly amplify the IAF’s strike capabilities. The integration of this missile will empower IAF aircraft to strike targets up to 250 km away, as stated by the MIB on 30 April.
The MIB has verified that the missiles are being deployed on IAF’s Sukhoi Su-30, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-29, and Sepecat Jaguar combat aircraft. However, while it is understood that the missile has likely been deployed with IAF’s Su-30 and Jaguar units, it is not yet operational with the IAF’s MiG-29 UPGs and Fulcrum.
This procurement by the IAF follows the Indian Navy’s acquisition of the missile for its carrier-borne MiG-29K fleet. The integration of the Rampage missile signifies a substantial stride in enhancing India’s defense capabilities.
The Rampage missile, an innovation of Elbit Systems, is a supersonic, long-range air-to-ground missile with the following key characteristics:
The Rampage is a stand-off weapon engineered to target high-value assets such as radar installations, communications centers, weapons storage facilities, and airfields while the launch aircraft remains out of range of air defenses. It can alter its path mid-air and is compatible with both western and eastern fighter jets.
The Rampage missile is part of a new generation of weaponry designed for modern warfare, where speed, precision, and survivability are key. Its supersonic speed makes it difficult to identify and intercept with air defense systems. Its GPS/INS guidance navigation with anti-jamming capabilities ensures accurate targeting even in challenging conditions.