Air Affairs Australia (AAA) were involved in the recent successful missile firing carried out in Australian waters by HMAS Arunta.
The ESSM is a surface-to-air weapon that uses radar homing guidance to counter fast- moving anti-ship missiles, forming part of Arunta’s air defence capability.
AAA provided a Phoenix Jet Unmanned Aerial Target that was successfully launched and flown towards HMAS Arunta in order to emulate a realistic airborne threat. During an attack profile that was flown, HMAS Arunta responded with a missile launch that successfully tracked and engaged the Phoenix Jet UAT.
AAA says it congratulates Commanding Officer, Commander Troy Duggan and the crew onboard, together with Maritime Warfare Centre personnel on this successful firing.
The Air Affairs Australia Phoenix Jet is a fixed wing, small to medium size jet-powered Remotely Piloted Aircraft that operates as an Unmanned Aerial Target (UAT) in support of the ADF's weapons tracking and firing programs.
The system comprises a mobile Launcher, ground control station and support equipment. The complete system can be easily transported for operations at several approved ADF Ranges or can be adapted for shipboard launch at sea.