Python-5 – Rafael’s 5th-gen air-to-air missile (AAM)

By Boyko Nikolov

In 2003, at the air show in Le Bourget, a new fifth-generation Israeli guided missile, called the Python 5, was first demonstrated.

Python-5 - Rafael's 5th-gen air-to-air missile (AAM)
Photo: Israeli Defense

The new missile was created by Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd. based on the well-established Python 4 SD using the latest advances in rocket science. Python 5 is equipped with a new dual-band thermal seeker, and a digital autopilot integrated with the INS. The digital autopilot with signal processor implements complex flight control algorithms, and also significantly increases the protection against IR interference. The presence of INS provides the possibility of hitting a target in any hemisphere. Thus, the possibility of firing without first capturing the target by the homing head-on target designation from the NSC is realized.

Launch platforms: CASA C-101 Aviojet, F-4E Kurnass 2000, F-5E/F Tiger-II, McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, General Dynamics F-16, Fighting Falcon, Dassault Mirage III, Dassault Mirage 5, Dassault Mirage 2000, IAI Nesher/Dagger/Finger, IAI Kfir, BAE Sea Harrier, HAL Tejas, SAAB Gripen NG, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Su-25KM Scorpion.

Python-5 - Rafael's 5th-gen air-to-air missile (AAM)
Photo: Wikipedia
Length, m3.096
Diameter, mm160
Wingspan, mm640
Weight, kg103.6
Enginedual-mode turbojet engine
Guidance systemsinfrared homing + 320×240 pixel dual waveband electro-optical imaging seeker, lock on after launch, with infrared counter-counter-measures (IRCCM)

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