Storm Shadow
Storm Shadow, is an air-launched, long-range, cruise missile with an adverse weather, day and night operational capability for the attack of ‘high value’, fixed targets. It is a completely autonomous weapon system that achieves a high level of target accuracy utilising a robust mid-course navigation system an Imaging infra-red terminal guidance seeker system and automatic target recognition.

Dstl has played a key role in the procurement of Storm Shadow. A broad range of analysis and technical support has been provided to the MOD throughout all procurement stages, from the definition of the original requirement to the Technical Bid Assessment, COEIA, contract negotiations and development phase.

For Operation Telic, and in response to a UOR, Storm Shadow played an important role in the conflict. The delivery of operational Storm Shadows from the contractor (MBDA) was accelerated to provide the RAF and the coalition with a unique capability against the ‘harder’ types of target in this conflict – for example, buried or surface bunkers and hardened aircraft shelters.

Initial analysis of results during and post conflict has proved the extreme accuracy of the system. Investigations are ongoing to confirm complete weapon system lethality and effectiveness.

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