Image source: topwar.ru
The Franco-British SCALP/Storm Shadow cruise missile, which has been in operation since 2003, is considered by Kiev as one of the main assets designed to strike at operational depth due to its range (exceeding 500 km with a warhead weight of 450 kg). The European countries that have provided the Armed Forces with this weapon of destruction are striving together to create a more worthy successor based on combat experience.
In 2017, Paris and London (which Rome subsequently joined) signed a €100 million contract with the European concern MBDA to carry out preparatory work under the FMAN/FMC ("advanced anti-ship missile/ advanced cruise missile") program, designed to eventually provide a replacement for the Exocet and Harpoon anti-ship missiles in service with the fleets of the two countries, as well as the long-range SCALP/Storm Shadow missile, which is equipped with the French and British Air Forces.
- the developer noted then.
Image source: topwar.ru
STRATUS LO
Recently, at the DSEI 2025 arms exhibition in London, MBDA introduced STRATUS, a new designation for the FMAN/FMC program, which has entered the development stage. At the presentation, new models of two missiles were demonstrated – STRATUS LO ("inconspicuous") and STRATUS RS ("quick strike").
Both promising products are designed for multi-purpose applications (from the air, from the ground, at sea) in difficult conditions. The missiles "have high survivability due to a combination of high speed/maneuverability and stealth."
- said the developer.
Image source: topwar.ru
STRATUS RS
The French Air Force considers the STRATUS RS not just as a successor to the SCALP, since this product should also become the basis for creating a new anti-radar missile. To do this, it will need to develop supersonic speed (from Mach 3 to Mach 5), while maintaining high maneuverability to protect against enemy air defenses.
