Fact Sheet: Surface-to-Air PYthon-5 and DERby-Air Defence System (SPYDER)

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Fact Sheet: Surface-to-Air PYthon-5 and DERby-Air Defence System (SPYDER)

Surface-to-air PYthon-5 and DERby

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) replaced its RAPIER air defence system with the Surface-to-air PYthon-5 and DERby (SPYDER) ground based air defence system in 2011.

The SPYDER is part of the enhanced Island Air Defence (IAD) system. The IAD system is a multi-layered networked island-wide networked system that brings together sensors, weapon systems, command and control elements and decision making tools to further strengthen Singapore's air defence.

As an all-weather air defence system, the SPYDER enhances the RSAF's capability to effectively deal with a wide spectrum of aerial threats. The capabilities of the SPYDER air defence system include anti-aircraft and anti-munition capabilities, and is able to deploy both the PYthon-5 and Derby missiles which are fitted with infrared imaging and radio frequency seekers respectively. 

The SPYDER intercepts targets at longer ranges and higher altitudes for improved operational effectiveness. It is equipped for 360 degree engagement against aerial threats and is able to engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously. Integrated into the enhanced IAD system, the SPYDER is able to tap on a real-time integrated air picture to respond faster and engage targets with greater precision.

Technical Specifications:

 

SPYDER System

Rapier System

Manufacturer

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems

British Aircraft Cooperation (now known as BAE Systems)

Intercept Range

15 kilometres

7 kilometres

Intercept Altitude

9 kilometres

3 kilometres

Crew Requirements

4 men deployment team

15 men deployment team

Guidance System

Derby Missile - Active homing guidance through radio frequency

Python-5 Missile - Infrared Imaging

Command Line-of-Sight

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