Missile MICA NG

Development of the missile system began in 1982. Initial trials occurred in 1991, and the system entered service in 1996. It was designed to replace the Super 530 in the interception role and the Magic II in the dogfighting role. The MICA NG is the second-generation variant designed to engage stealthy targets.

The system functions as a multi-target, all-weather, fire-and-forget missile for both air-to-air and surface-to-air operations. Guidance is provided by midcourse inertial systems and datalinks. Terminal guidance is available through active radar homing or imaging infrared homing seekers. Both seeker types are designed to filter out countermeasures such as chaff and decoy flares. The MICA NG utilizes an AESA seeker for the radar version and a matrix sensor for the infrared version to provide greater sensitivity. The infrared seeker can also provide imagery to the launch aircraft's central data processing system. The missile is powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor equipped with thrust vector control. It is capable of lock-on after launch and over-the-shoulder engagements, allowing for the destruction of targets behind the launch aircraft using coordinates transmitted via Link 16. The warhead utilizes proximity or direct impact detonation. Launch platforms include fixed-wing aircraft, truck-mounted box launchers, ship-fitted vertical launch systems, and nuclear-fueled attack submarines.

The missile is widely deployed and forms a component of the air defense for France, Greece, India, Qatar, and Taiwan. It is integrated on aircraft including the Rafale, Mirage 2000, Mirage F1, and Su-30MKI. The MICA NG has been purchased by Egypt and Serbia. In its surface-to-air configuration, the system is operated by ground forces in Botswana, Morocco, Oman, and Thailand. Naval variants are installed on various corvette and frigate classes operated by Egypt, Indonesia, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. Future operators include Bulgaria, Malaysia, and Ukraine. In a 2008 test, the system intercepted a low-level drone target flying over the sea. France has also designated the system for use on its attack submarines.