MBDA successfully tests Italian Army GRIFO air defence system
The Enhanced Modular Air Defence Solutions (EMADS) family, based on the Common Anti-Air Modular Missile – Extended Range (CAMM-ER) missile. (Photo: MBDA)
The Italian Army’s new generation air defence system, GRIFO, recently performed a successful qualification firing carried out by MBDA.
The MBDA-developed system is part of the Enhanced Modular Air Defence Solutions (EMADS) family, based on the Common Anti-Air Modular Missile – Extended Range (CAMM-ER) missile. CAMM-ER itself is part of the wider air defence family of Common Anti-Air Missile (CAMM) missiles, which are vertically launched to provide 360° air defence coverage.
GRIFO will be operated as part of the Italian Army’s air defence, giving its short-range air defence capability an extended range.
MBDA claimed that the trial was a major milestone, adding that “for the first time, the Command Post and Engagement Module (PCMI - Posto Comando Modulo di Ingaggio) of the GRIFO system was tested and qualified, integrated with missile launcher and CAMM-ER missile.”
“The test was carried out against a target drone simulating an attack by an enemy aircraft, confirming the defence capabilities and performance of both the missile and the entire system in an integrated mode,” the company noted in a statement.
During the test, MBDA said, the PCMI identified an attacking UAV, determined its threat level, selected the appropriate defence response, and ordered the launch of a CAMM-ER missile to neutralise it. The trial also confirmed the proper operation of the bidirectional datalink connecting CAMM-ER and the GRIFO ground system.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
Croatia orders Leopards and CAESAR howitzers as Lithuania orders more CAESARs
The Leopard is becoming the tank of choice in central and eastern Europe as Croatia joins Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Hungary in ordering the platform. Lithuania and Croatia have also signed for CAESAR howitzers.
-
Light Reconnaissance Strike – enabling a vital mission set (Studio)
A new system-of-systems concept will unlock digital integration of sensors and weapons for Light Forces, allowing them to shape the battlefield environment on their own terms and upgrade legacy platforms.
-
Lockheed Martin to look further afield for GMARS rocket system opportunities
The HX truck is already in use in many NATO and allied countries around the world as a logistics vehicle and carrier for high-value systems, including missile firing weapons, so its use for the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System makes logistical sense.
-
Lithuanian 1st Division to achieve initial operating capability in 2026
Lithuania is one of the countries stepping up its defences in the face of the war in Ukraine with a particular focus on its neighbour and Russian ally Belarus, which has been making incursions into Lithuania’s airspace with balloons and drones.
-
Beyond Survivability: How Active Protection Systems Are Empowering Commanders (Podcast)
As threats diversify and intensify, APS are proving essential not just for vehicle protection but also for enhancing operational freedom, effectiveness and mission success in contested environments.
-
Medium knocked out of British Army LMP, with CAVS as heavyweight champion
As the British Army seeks to modernise and consolidate its diverse vehicle fleet, yet another change in direction is underway.