FM-90 Surface-to-Air Missile System

At the end of 1998, the FM-90, an enhanced version of the FM-80/HQ-7, was introduced to the public. Compared to the original system, the improvements on the FM-90 include: Using VLSI technology-based computer (designed by 706 Institute) to replace the original LSI technology-based S-9 computer on the HQ-7/FM-80. Using digital electronic technology to replace the original analogue design, increasing the missile's abilities against active/passive jamming. Using a new two-waveband tracking radar to replace the original monopulse radar An infrared camera was added to the TV tracking system so that the optical tracking system can be used at night. Target information between search and firing units is transmitted via a datalink pole system similar to that fitted on the later production Thomson-CSF Crotale 4000. Re-designed missile warhead fusing system. In addition, the missile's seeking/homing range, maximum speed, and attack range all have been improved, which greatly increases its combat effectiveness. With a maximum detecting range of 25km, the FM-90 is capable of attacking three targets using three different guidance modes simultaneously. The missile also has anti-missile ability against ultra-low-altitude cruise missiles, air-to-surface missiles, and anti-radiation missiles at a distance of 17km. Status The Bangladesh Air Force operates the ground-based version of the FM-90 for base air defence purposes, while the Navy operates the FM-90N aboard BNS Khalid bin Walid guided missile frigate. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Origin China Type Area Air Defence System Missile Dimensions Length: 3.00 m, Diameter: 0.156 m, Wingspan: 0.55 m Missile Weight 84.5 kg Operating Altitude 15-6,000 m Operating Range 700 m to 15,000 m Speed Mach 2.3 (750 m/s) Guidance Command + electro-optical tracking Single Shot Hit Probability 70-80% Radar Detecting Range 25 km Radar Homing Range 20 km Warhead HE-FRAG with proximity fuse Service Bangladesh Air Force, Bangladesh Navy GALLERY