Price of successful ‘drone killer’ said to be one-tenth that of conventional air-defence munitions with comparable range and firepower specs
The “drone-killing” success of Iran’s 358 loitering munition, especially against expensive US-made platforms, is attracting attention well beyond the battlefield in the Middle East.
The 358 missile, also known as the SA-67, weighs about 50kg (110lbs). Powered by a micro-turbojet and solid rocket booster, it cruises subsonically at about Mach 0.6 for 100-150km (62-93 miles) and employs an infrared seeker for target guidance.
Compared with conventional surface-to-air missiles, which often exceed Mach 3, the missile 358’s relatively slow speed is a significant limitation deemed inadequate for engaging jet-powered aircraft.
However, the weapon possesses unique advantages, according to Chinese military commentator Zhang Xuefeng.
Source: News - South China Morning Post
