INTRODUCTION

Stood up for 24/7 air defence operations since August 2020, the Aster 30 Missile System which is an all-weather, next generation Medium-range Surface-to-Air Missile system, is an integral part of the Republic of Singapore Air Force's Island Air Defence (IAD) system to defend Singapore against a wide spectrum of air threats day and night. It works synergistically with other sensors, shooters and the Smart Combat Management System in the RSAF's IAD^[1] system to achieve a multi-layered, networked, and intelligent air defence for Singapore.

KEY CAPABILITIES OF ASTER 30 MISSILE SYSTEM

The details of the Aster 30's capabilities are outlined below:

a. Anti-Aircraft and Anti-Missile Capability. The Aster 30 has enhanced air defence capabilities that allow the RSAF to deal with new and emerging threats effectively. It is a versatile Ground Based Air Defense system that is able to counter a wide spectrum of air threats, ranging from fighters, helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to precision-guided munitions. It can also intercept air threats at a further distance than the I-HAWK.

b. Enhanced Awareness and Responsiveness. The Aster 30 is integrated into the RSAF's networked air defence system. This allows the Aster 30 to tap the real-time integrated air situation picture collated by the RSAF's array of sensors. The Aster 30 is thus able to react promptly and effectively against air threats.

c. Enhanced Effectiveness. The Aster 30 provides the RSAF with an extended engagement envelope of up to 70km against fighter aircraft. The Aster 30 also has the ability to engage multiple air threats simultaneously, and neutralise them at a longer range and with greater precision.