Mistral (missile)
The Missile Transportable Anti-aérien Léger (English: Transportable lightweight anti-air missile), commonly called Mistral, is a French infrared homing short range air defense system manufactured by MBDA France (formerly by Matra Defence and then Matra BAe Dynamics). Based on the French SATCP (Sol-Air à Très Courte Portée), the development of the portable system later to become the Mistral began in 1974. The first version of the system was introduced in 1988 (S1), the second in 1997 (Mistral 2), and the third in 2018 (Mistral 3).
"MISTRAL" redirects here. For other uses, see Mistral.Mistral
History[edit]
Mistral missiles used by the Rwandan forces in the Second Congo War shot down a Zimbabwean Air Force BAE Hawk fighter on 23 March 1999.[6]
Two automated SADRAL launchers (re-cycled from the retiring Georges Leygues-class frigates) and each equipped with six Mistral Mk 3 surface-to-air missiles were fitted to three La Fayette-class frigates of the French Navy in the 2021–2023 period. The system replaced the previous Crotale system in order to provide a modernized defence against sea-skimming targets.[7][8] The Mistral Mk 3 carries an infrared imaging seeker and possesses advanced image processing capabilities. This allows it to engage low thermal signature targets such as: UAVs, turbojet-powered missiles and fast craft at long range, while reportedly offering resistance to countermeasures.[9] The system is also carried on the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle,[10] the Mistral-class amphibious assault ships[11] and (SIMBAD-RC) is being installed on the French Navy's Jacques Chevallier-class support ships.[12]
Two Sadral turrets for Mistral were also installed on the raised deck on each side of the helicopter hangar of the former Cassard-class frigates.[13] Space for the SADRAL/Mistral system is also provided for on the French Horizon-class frigates but, as of 2021, has not been installed on those vessels.
Norway sent 100 Mistral systems to Ukraine shortly after the start of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.[14]
In response to the need for faster weapon shipments as a result of the war, in early 2023 MBDA started accelerating production of the Mistral 3 from 20 to 30 missiles per month,[15] and to 40 per month by late 2023.[16]
Austria
Brazil
Brunei
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Indonesia
Kenya
Lebanon
Morocco
Pakistan
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
: First contract consists of 406 launchers and 2,760 missiles.
Republic of Korea
Thailand
: Delivered by France and Norway as military aid in anticipation of and during the 2022 Russian invasion.[30][31]
