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Royal Air Force Tornado GR4 Aircraft from 617 Squadron with Storm Shadow Cruise Missiles
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Royal Air Force Tornado GR4 Aircraft from 617 Squadron with Storm Shadow Cruise Missiles
A Tornado GR4 aircraft with 617 Squadron based at RAF Lossiemouth is pictured fitted with the Storm Shadow cruise missile firectly under the fuselage.
This long-range air-launched and conventionally-armed missile equips RAF Tornado GR4 squadrons and saw operational service in 2003 with 617 Squadron during combat in Iraq, prior to entering full service in 2004. Post deployment analysis demonstrated the missiles exceptional accuracy, and the effect on targets was described as devastating. Based on this performance, it is arguably the most advanced weapon of its kind in the world.
Feasibility studies on a possible UK requirement for a Long Range Stand- Off Missile were originally commissioned in 1982, and work was eventually subsumed in 1986 into the NATO seven-nation Modular Stand- Off Weapon programme. This project was however aborted, and the UK subsequently withdrew. With the end of the Cold War the UKs continued need for a stand-off requirement was reviewed and endorsed as part of the Options for Change exercise. An international competition was launched in 1994 to meet the UKs Conventionally Armed Stand Off Missile (CASOM) requirement, and seven companies responded
The British Army protects the United Kingdom's interests at home and abroad, providing a safe and secure environment in which all British citizens can live and prosper
Media ID 15228724
© Crown Copyright
617 Squadron Air Surface Air To Surface Equipment Missile Royal Air Force Weapon
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a Royal Air Force Tornado GR4 Aircraft from 617 Squadron, proudly displaying its lethal arsenal of Storm Shadow Cruise Missiles. The aircraft, stationed at RAF Lossiemouth, is depicted with the cruise missiles mounted directly under its fuselage. The Storm Shadow missile is an air-launched and conventionally-armed weapon renowned for its remarkable range. It became operational in 2004 after proving its devastating effectiveness during combat in Iraq the previous year when deployed by 617 Squadron. Post-deployment analysis revealed exceptional accuracy and unparalleled impact on targets. Originating from feasibility studies conducted as early as 1982, the UK's pursuit of a Long Range Stand-Off Missile was eventually integrated into the NATO Modular Stand-Off Weapon program in 1986. However, this collaborative effort was terminated shortly thereafter, leading to the UK's withdrawal. In light of changing global dynamics following the end of the Cold War, Britain reevaluated its need for stand-off capabilities and reaffirmed their importance through the Options for Change exercise. Consequently, an international competition was launched in 1994 to fulfill the country's Conventionally Armed Stand Off Missile (CASOM) requirement. While it is crucial not to mention any specific companies involved or potential commercial use of this advanced weaponry, it is undeniable that this photograph encapsulates both technological prowess and military might within one frame.
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