STARSTREAK HIGH VELOCITY MISSILE

Short Missile Systems of Belfast were the prime contractors for the HVM (High Velocity Missile) which continues along the development path of both Blowpipe and Javelin. 

The system can be shoulder launched or by mounting on the LML (Lightweight Multiple Launcher) or vehicle borne on the Alvis Stormer APC.

The Stormer APC has an eight-round launcher and 12 x reload missiles can be carried inside the vehicle.

HVM has been optimised to counter threats from fast pop-up type strikes by attack helicopters. The missile employs a system of three dart type projectiles which can make multiple hits on the target. Each of these darts has an explosive warhead. It is believed that the HVM has an SSK (Single Shot To Kill) probability of over 95%.

Under a £72 million contract the HVM Thermal Sighting System (TSS) has been procured to enable the HVM to have the capability to operate at night, through cloud or in poor visibility. Some 84 x TSS are believed to be entering service with first units having been equipped at late 2006.

12 Regiment RA and 47 Regiment RA stationed at Thorney Island in West Sussex are equipped with HVM and there is 1 x TA Artillery Regiment similarly equipped. There are three TA HVM regiments. On Mobilisation, 12 and 47 Regiment is believed to be configured as follows:

Note: On mobilisation the Regiment has 108 launchers divided amongst the three missile batteries. An HVM detachment of four is carried in a Stormer armoured vehicle and in each vehicle there are four personnel. Inside the vehicle there are twelve ready-to-use missiles with a further eight stored inside as reloads.

In mid-2001, Thales Air Defence was awarded a £66 million order for an Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) system for the Starstreak HVM.

In early 2005 the MoD announced the procurement of additional missiles worth about £180 million for the high velocity missile system.

Photo courtesy of BAe Systems