Python (missile)

Rafael Python
The newest and the oldest member of the Python family of AAM for comparisons, Python-5 (displayed lower-front) and Shafrir-1 (upper-back).
TypeShort-range air-to-air missile
Place of originIsrael
Service history
Used bySee operators
Production history
ManufacturerRafael Advanced Defense Systems
Unit costShafrir series: Shafrir-1: US$20,000
Produced
  • Shafrir series: 1961–1983
  • Python series: 1980–present
Specifications
Mass103.6 kilograms (228 poundsounces)
Length3.1 metres (10 feet)
Diameter160 millimetres (6.3 inches)
Wingspan640 mm (25 in)
Warhead11 kg (24 lb 4 oz)
Detonation
mechanism
proximity

Enginesolid fuel rocket motor
Operational
range
>20 kilometres (12 miles)
Flight altitudeN/A
Maximum speed Mach 4
Guidance
system
infrared homing + 320×240 pixel dual waveband electro-optical imaging seeker, lock on after launch, with infrared counter-counter-measures (IRCCM)
Launch
platform
Aircraft: CASA C-101 Aviojet
F-4E Kurnass 2000
F-5E/F Tiger-II
McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon[1]
Dassault Mirage III
Dassault Mirage 5
Dassault Mirage 2000
IAI Nesher/Dagger/Finger
IAI Kfir
BAE Sea Harrier
HAL Tejas
SAAB Gripen NG[2]
Sukhoi Su-30MKI[citation needed]
Su-25KM Scorpion[3]

The Rafael Python (פיתון) is a family of air-to-air missiles (AAMs) built by the Israeli weapons manufacturer Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, formerly RAFAEL Armament Development Authority. Originally starting with the Shafrir (Hebrew: שפריר, loosely translated as a dome, or a protective cloak – but also similar sounding to Dragonfly, a male form of inflection for Damselfly (שפירית)) series, the Shafrir-1 missile was developed in 1959, followed by the Shafrir-2 in early 1970s. Subsequently, the missiles were given the western name of "Python" by the parent company for export purposes, starting with the Python-3 in 1978. Since then, it has been further developed and evolved into the Python-4, Python-5, Derby and also, the SPYDER, an advanced ground-based air-defence system. Currently, the missiles are in service with the armed forces of over fifteen countries from around the world.

  1. ^ Airframe Details for F-16 #87-1672. F-16.net. Retrieved on 2013-07-17.
  2. ^ "Gripen for Brazil – The Fighter". Saabgroup.com. Archived from the original on 2013-03-31.
  3. ^ "Fighter SU-25KM (Scorpion)". Geo-army.ge. Archived from the original on 2016-05-27.