BelligerentPacifist
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I didn't get you. How a 20km SA range be translated into 50km AA range? Spada 2000 is a SAM version of Aspide MK-1 that has a max range of 20km. There is no Aspide with a 50km range. There were plans for Aspide Mk-2 with 60km range, but MK-2 never materilized.
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OK, quoted missile ranges are very erratic, specially for AAMs since launch altitude changes them a great deal among other reasons.
The ranges below are approximations. Comapare:
MICA: 50 km as AAM, 15 km as SAM
Aspide/Sparrow: 55 km as AAM, 15 km as SAM
Sidewinder: 20 km as AAM, 8 km as SAM
Amraam: 60 km as AAM, about 15+ km as SAM
Here's a link that states ranges for both AAM and SAM Aspide. It's only FAS but still...:
Aspide Mk1/Mk2
When you're using an AAM missile as a SAM, it needs to get off the ground from 0 initial speed, faces maximal air drag, and burns fuel to gain altitude; things that the corresponding AAM hasn't to contend with. And the SAM usually (e.g. Spada's missiles) has a heavier warhead.
As shehbazi said, Aspide 2k is an improved missile. Bigger motor, bigger warhead, greater speed, more independent control planes and maybe an improved seeker. Its not the Aspide planes carried under their wings.
Yeah its only a low altitude, short range system; but remember its replacing the lowest tier non-MANPAD SAM we have. The one disadvantage over the Crotale will be the reduced mobility, something very undesirable these days with enemy SEAD capabilities at stand-off ranges.
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