GS Paper |
|
Topics for UPSC Prelims |
|
Topics for UPSC Mains |
The Scalp missile is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile that can hit targets far away from the aircraft that launches it. It is designed to strike important and well-protected targets, even in bad weather conditions. This missile is known for its ability to fly at very low altitudes, making it difficult for enemy radar systems to detect it. Its precision guidance system ensures a high probability of hitting the intended target accurately.
This topic, "Scalp Missile," is highly relevant for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. It primarily falls under the General Studies Paper III, which includes subjects like Science and Technology, Defence and Security, and Current Events of National and International Importance.
The Scalp missile has been in the news recently due to its reported use by the Indian Air Force in Operation Sindoor, a counter-terrorism operation carried out against terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation was a response to a deadly attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam. News reports indicate that Rafale fighter jets of the IAF were deployed to launch Scalp missiles for deep strike missions, alongside other precision-guided munitions like HAMMER missiles.
Subjects | PDF Link |
---|---|
Download Free Ancient History Notes PDF Created by UPSC Experts | Download Link |
Grab the Free Economy Notes PDF used by UPSC Aspirants | Download Link |
Get your hands on the most trusted Free UPSC Environmental Notes PDF | Download Link |
Exclusive Free Indian Geography PDF crafted by top mentors | Download Link |
UPSC Toppers’ trusted notes, Now FREE for you. Download the Polity Notes PDF today! | Download Link |
Thousands of UPSC aspirants are already using our FREE UPSC notes. Get World Geography Notes PDF Here | Download Link |
Get UPSC Beginners Program SuperCoaching @ just
₹50000₹0
A Scalp missile is essentially a sophisticated type of bomb that an aircraft can launch to hit targets that are very far away. Unlike regular bombs that simply fall after being dropped, a Scalp missile has its own engine and wings, allowing it to fly a long distance to its target. It's like a pilotless plane that carries explosives.
These missiles are designed to attack important targets like command centers, airfields, and bridges that are located deep within enemy territory. Because they can fly at a very low height, they can often sneak under the radar systems that enemies use to detect incoming threats. This makes them very effective in surprise attacks.
Key Details related to Scalp Missile for UPSC |
|
Feature |
Details |
Full Name |
SCALP EG (Système de Croisière Autonome à Longue Portée – Emploi Général) |
Also Known As |
Storm Shadow (UK variant) |
Type |
Air-Launched Cruise Missile |
Developer |
MBDA (European defence company – France & UK) |
Operator in India |
Indian Air Force (with Dassault Rafale fighter jets) |
Range |
~250–560 km (export version capped due to MTCR restrictions) |
First Inducted by India |
2020 (as part of Rafale weapon package) |
Countries Using SCALP |
France, UK, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, India, Ukraine |
Read the article on the Missiles of India!
Scalp missiles have several important features that make them stand out:
The exact specifications of Scalp missiles can vary slightly depending on the version, but some general characteristics include:
Specifications of Scalp Missiles |
|
Feature |
Specification |
Range |
Typically 250-560 km |
Speed |
High subsonic (around Mach 0.8) |
Warhead Weight |
Approximately 450 kg |
Length |
Around 5 meters |
Diameter |
Roughly 0.5 meters |
Launch Platform |
Primarily fighter aircraft (e.g., Rafale, Tornado) |
Guidance System |
INS/GPS + Terrain Following/Imaging Infrared |
Read the article on the Agni v & MIRV Technology!
Scalp cruise missiles work through a combination of advanced technologies that allow them to fly long distances and hit targets with high accuracy. Here’s a simplified breakdown of their operation:
Read the article on the Air to Air Missiles!
The exact cost of a Scalp cruise missile is difficult to pinpoint precisely as it can vary depending on the specific variant, the quantity purchased, and the terms of the procurement contract. However, it is generally understood to be a high-value, expensive piece of military hardware.
Cruise missiles like the Scalp are technologically advanced, incorporating complex navigation, guidance, and stealth features, as well as a powerful engine and a substantial warhead. These factors contribute to their high cost of production.
Estimates from various defence analyses and reports suggest that a single Scalp missile could cost anywhere from $800,000 to $1.5 million USD or even more. This places them in the category of premium precision-guided munitions.
Read the article on the Surface to Surface Missiles!
The Scalp missile is primarily integrated with and used by nations that operate the Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft. The main countries known to be using the Rafale with the Scalp missile capability include:
List of Countries Currently Using the Rafale Scalp Missile |
|||
Country |
Missile Used |
Aircraft Used |
Notes |
France |
SCALP EG |
Dassault Rafale |
The original developer and a primary user of both the missile and the aircraft. |
United Kingdom |
Storm Shadow |
Tornado GR4 (retired), Eurofighter Typhoon (integration planned) |
Co-developer of the missile (as Storm Shadow); while Tornado GR4 has been retired, integration with Eurofighter Typhoon was intended to continue its operational use. |
Italy |
Storm Shadow |
Tornado IDS (retired) |
Has used Storm Shadow on its Tornado IDS aircraft, which are now being retired. Future integration plans with other platforms might exist but require confirmation. |
India |
SCALP |
Dassault Rafale |
Operates Rafale aircraft equipped with SCALP missiles, significantly enhancing its long-range strike capabilities. |
Egypt |
SCALP (likely) |
Dassault Rafale |
Believed to have acquired Rafale aircraft with Scalp missiles; official confirmation and details of integration may not be fully public. |
Qatar |
SCALP (likely) |
Dassault Rafale |
Likely operates Rafale aircraft integrated with Scalp missiles as part of its air force modernization; specific details are often not publicly disclosed. |
Ukraine |
Storm Shadow/SCALP EG |
(Launched from adapted aircraft) |
Received Storm Shadow missiles from the UK and SCALP EG missiles from France for use in the conflict with Russia. These have been adapted for launch from their existing aircraft. |
To study more such topics for UPSC, download the Testbook App now!
Download the Testbook APP & Get Pass Pro Max FREE for 7 Days
Download the testbook app and unlock advanced analytics.