TEJAS TO TEST FIRE PAYTHON-5 AIR-TO-AIR MISSILE
ADA is reported to test-fire the Close Combat Missile (CCM) Python-5 Air-To-Air missile by the end of this month, informed sources confirmed today.

Air Force Technology website reports the Python-5 as a 5th generation air-to-air missile (AAM) manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. It is the newest member in the range of Python AAMs. The missile demonstrates superior target detection and tracking capabilities, involving captive carry evaluation and homing trials. The missile can engage enemy aircraft from very short ranges and near beyond visual range. Python-5 is the most accurate and reliable AAM of the Israeli Air Force and one of the most sophisticated guided missiles in the world.

Earlier, in Feb 2016, Tejas conducted the first test firing of the beyond visual range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), Derby. Derby initially faced severe vibration issues during firing trials which was subsequently solved by ADA engineers.

In addition to Python and Derby, Tejas is armed with the Russian-made CCM R-73, laser-guided bombs (LGB) Griffin and Paveway and the Russian-made cannon Gsh-23.

The CCM R-73 has been fired over a dozen times now at Goa, Jaisalmer and Jamnagar as part of the weapon trials of Tejas over the years.

This crucial test forms a part of the Final Operational Clearance of the home-grown light fighter.

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