The
USD260 million contract will include 225 RIM-116C Rolling Airframe Tactical
Missiles and two RIM-116C-2 Rolling Airframe Telemetry Missiles, along
with support equipment, publications and technical documentation, logistics
support services, US government and contractor engineering, live fire
tests and other related services.
Comment by Xavier Vavasseur, Chief Editor
As none of Qatar Navy larger vessels (Vosper Vita Class and CMN Combattante
III FACMs) are fitted with the RAM system, it seems that this new acquisition
would be for the Protector project. Shrouded in secrets, the Protector
program calls for 2 to 3 air defense crovettes-sized vessels capable
"of some" anti-ballistic missions. Fincantieri of Italy and
DCNS of France are said to be competing for this program.
About RAM
RAM is a supersonic, lightweight, quick reaction, fire-and-forget missile
providing defense against anti-ship cruise missiles, helicopter and
airborne threats, and hostile surface craft. The missile's autonomous
dual-mode, passive radio frequency and infrared guidance design provide
a high-firepower capability for engaging multiple threats simultaneously.
RAM is installed, or planned for installation, aboard more than 165
ships as an integral self-defense weapon for the navies of Egypt, Germany,
Greece, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates
and the United States.
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