Japan's supersonic ASM‑3A missile boosts maritime defense
This year, Japan will begin deploying the first supersonic anti-ship missiles, the ASM-3A, intended for use on F-2 aircraft, among others. Here, we present what is known about Japan's new anti-ship weapon.
According to the portal Jwing, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) will begin the deployment of ASM-3A missiles in the current fiscal year. This modern supersonic anti-ship weapon is designed for F-2 aircraft.
The new missiles will replace older ASM-2 versions, allowing the Mitsubishi F-2 aircraft to maintain effectiveness in targeting enemy ships due to an increased range of approximately 300 to 400 kilometers (approximately 186 to 249 miles).
ASM-3A missile — a supersonic threat to the Russian fleet
This missile is about 6 metres (20 feet) long and weighs just under 1,000 kilograms (approximately 2,205 pounds). It can reach speeds over Mach 3 (approximately 3,700 kilometres per hour or 2,303 mph) and fly at very low altitudes, presenting significant challenges to ship self-defense systems.
The Japanese achieved this performance by utilizing a ramjet engine instead of a traditional solid-fuel rocket engine, as evidenced by the air intakes located at the bottom of the missile's body, similar to the European air-to-air missile MBDA Meteor.
Ramjet engine — much more efficient than rocket engine
The ramjet engine functions similarly to a rocket engine, but the fuel does not require an oxidizer and relies only on a combustible substance. Oxygen for the combustion process is drawn from the atmosphere through characteristic air intakes, which also act as an air compressor before reaching the combustion chamber.
This design provides a longer engine operating time using the same mass of fuel, leading to a higher missile speed and range. Although the ramjet requires an initial speed of about Mach 2 to ignite, this is accomplished with the help of a rocket booster that functions for a few seconds.
Guidance to the target is ensured by a combination of satellite and inertial navigation, complemented in the final flight phase by an active radar seeker. While the specific warhead details remain unknown, it is likely similar to other penetrating and explosive solutions used in competing anti-ship missiles. These advancements represent a significant enhancement of Japanese aviation capabilities in potential confrontations with the Chinese fleet.
