QinetiQ launches Mirach, Firejet aerial targets simultaneously

QinetiQ has flown Firejet and Mirach aerial targets together for the first time during a live exercise from Ministry of Defence (MoD) Hebrides on the Western Isles of Scotland. The test was part of Formidable Shield, an international maritime exercise supporting eight NATO countries, the company announced on 13 October.

During the test, QinetiQ simultaneously launched two Firejets and two Mirach targets that flew in formation to be engaged by participating navies. Mirach and Firejet are high speed, manoeuvrable targets that can fulfill long range sea skimming profiles enabling training, test and evaluation for navy customers.

Formidable Shield is intended to test NATO countries' integrated air and missile defence capabilities. QinetiQ is managing the safe operation of the MoD Hebrides Range for the eight participating countries including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, UK and US.

Steve Fitz-Gerald, managing director for maritime, land and weapons, QinetiQ said: ‘The launching of Firejet and Mirach targets at the same time is an important first, as part of Formidable Shield.

‘Being able to fly several targets simultaneously enhances the MoD Hebrides Range, ensuring we maintain a truly world-class capability ensuring the range to be attractive to International and UK customers.’

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