Starstreak Missile

Full Specifications

Starstreak Missile, High Speed Air Defense System

The Starstreak Missile is a British-made, very short range air defense missile (VSHORAD) designed to defeat fast moving aerial threats including helicopters, low flying aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Developed to provide rapid battlefield air defense, Starstreak is recognized as one of the fastest operational surface to air missiles in the world. Unlike conventional infrared guided missiles, it uses an advanced laser beam riding guidance system that makes it highly resistant to electronic countermeasures.

Manufacturer

Starstreak was developed by Thales Air Defence Ltd. (formerly Shorts Missile Systems) in the United Kingdom. It entered operational service with the British Army in the late 1990s and has since been exported to several allied nations. The missile can be launched from shoulder fired systems, lightweight multiple launchers, armored vehicles, and the Stormer High Velocity Missile platform.

Speed

Starstreak accelerates to over Mach 3, allowing it to engage high speed aircraft with extremely short reaction times. After launch, the missile separates into three tungsten alloy dart submunitions, each independently guided within the laser beam toward the target, increasing the probability of a successful intercept.

Range

The missile has an effective engagement range of approximately 7 kilometers and can intercept targets at altitudes of up to 5 kilometers. Its combination of speed and precision makes it particularly effective against attack helicopters, drones, and low altitude aircraft operating near the battlefield.

Cost / Price

The estimated unit cost of a Starstreak missile is approximately US$100,000 to US$150,000, depending on procurement quantity, launcher configuration, support equipment, and contract terms. Official export pricing varies between customers.