Rafael Python 5

Python 5 - Israeli air-to-air missile , developed by Rafael Armament Development Authority based on Rafael Python 4 , de facto - improved performance through the use of a new element base, improved algorithms for tuning out interference based on a proven body, aerodynamics, engine and warheads. In contrast to the similar in size, the R-73 has more developed destabilizers and a wing.

Python 5
Type of	Short-range missile defense
Developer	Rafael
Adoption	2005
Manufacturer	Rafael
Main operators	Israeli Air Force
Base model	Rafael Python 4
Key Specifications
* Warhead weight - 11 kg * Speed ​​- 4 M * Range - 20 km
↓ All specifications

In 2003, it was first demonstrated at the Le Bourget air show. It is made by the Israeli company Rafael . It is in service with more than 15 countries of the world ^[1] .

It has a dual-band thermal imaging homing head (judging by the advertising pictures - in the optical and far-IR (8-13 μm) ranges) made in the form of a multi-element matrix located in the focus of the lens (the so-called Focal Plane Array (FPA), digital autopilot . The combination of electro-optical and thermal imaging, coupled with a high resolution matrix, allows you to successfully select and hit stealth targets (helicopters and UAVs ), as evidenced by the destruction shots of Ababil Hezbollah UAVs ^[2] during the Lebanese war in August 2006. solid and low-altitude (cruising speed of 160 km / h, maximum - 300 km / h, altitude up to 3000/5500 m (with an engine of 30 hp), the UAVs were equipped with suspended NAR (load up to 100 kg) or high-explosive warhead 45 kg and were used like cruise missiles, presenting a serious and hardly detectable threat.

It is presented in advertising brochures as “a revolutionary missile with a full-sphere lesion zone” (Full-sphere) [1] , implying high maneuverability up to the possibility of reversing the flight direction (most likely due to gas-dynamic control, like on the R-73 ), - and capture the target after launch and maneuver (lock-on-after launch (LOAL), which in intense close combat can lead to the defeat of allied aircraft ). The manufacturer itself does not publish data on traction capabilities, available Python-5 overloads, launch range, speed and maneuvering target parameters, limited to the phrases “advanced ANN ”, “5th generation of GOS”, “sophisticated anti-jamming system”, “unique aerodynamics and powerful engine "," range up to the near border of the zone beyond visual visibility (Beyond Visual Range) ", therefore, the tactical and technical data are given from public sources.

The missiles are equipped with F-15 , F-16 , F / A-18 , F-5 , Kfir ^[3] , HAL Tejas ^[4] aircraft . It is used as part of SPYDER air defense systems ( S urface-to-air PY thon and DER by), along with Derby missiles ^[5] .