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Tornado GR4 Carrying Storm Shadow Missiles
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Tornado GR4 Carrying Storm Shadow Missiles
An RAF Tornado GR4 aircraft carrying two Storm Shadow missiles under the fuselage.
This long-range air-launched and conventionally-armed missile equips RAF Tornado GR4 squadrons and saw operational service in 2003 with 617 Squadron during combat in Iraq, prior to entering full service in 2004. Post deployment analysis demonstrated the missiles exceptional accuracy, and the effect on targets was described as devastating. Based on this performance, it is arguably the most advanced weapon of its kind in the world.
Feasibility studies on a possible UK requirement for a Long Range Stand- Off Missile were originally commissioned in 1982, and work was eventually subsumed in 1986 into the NATO seven-nation Modular Stand- Off Weapon programme. This project was however aborted, and the UK subsequently withdrew. With the end of the Cold War the UKs continued need for a stand-off requirement was reviewed and endorsed as part of the Options for Change exercise. An international competition was launched in 1994 to meet the UKs Conventionally Armed Stand Off Missile (CASOM) requirement, and seven companies responded
The British Army protects the United Kingdom's interests at home and abroad, providing a safe and secure environment in which all British citizens can live and prosper
Media ID 15227940
© Geoff Lee
Air Surface Air To Surface Aircraft Equipment Fighter Missile Offensive Royal Air Force Tornado Weapon
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The print captures the awe-inspiring sight of an RAF Tornado GR4 aircraft, proudly displaying its power as it carries two Storm Shadow missiles beneath its fuselage. These long-range air-launched and conventionally-armed missiles have become a vital asset for RAF Tornado GR4 squadrons since their operational debut in 2003 during combat in Iraq. Renowned for their exceptional accuracy, these devastating weapons proved their worth on the battlefield, leaving targets utterly decimated. In fact, many experts argue that the Storm Shadow missile is the most advanced weapon of its kind worldwide due to its unparalleled performance. The journey towards acquiring such a formidable weapon began back in 1982 when feasibility studies were commissioned to explore the UK's need for a Long Range Stand-Off Missile. Although initially part of NATO's Modular Stand-Off Weapon program, this project was eventually abandoned by other nations. However, recognizing the importance of maintaining a stand-off capability even after the Cold War ended, the UK endorsed this requirement as part of the Options for Change exercise. In 1994, an international competition was launched to fulfill Britain's Conventionally Armed Stand Off Missile (CASOM) requirement. Seven companies responded eagerly to this opportunity to contribute to national defense and showcase their technological prowess. This print serves as a testament not only to the impressive capabilities of modern military technology but also highlights how strategic planning and continuous evaluation ensure that armed forces remain at the forefront of innovation and preparedness.
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