ELSA (European Long-Range Strike Approach)
Type: missile
Domain: air
Country of Origin: France / UK / Italy / Germany
Manufacturer: MBDA
Overview
European collaborative programme to develop a very long-range, hypersonic or high-speed conventional deep strike missile to succeed the SCALP-EG/Storm Shadow in the 2035+ timeframe. Intended to penetrate advanced integrated air defense systems through a combination of speed (potentially Mach 5+), extreme manoeuvrability, low observability, and electronic countermeasures. Multiple propulsion concepts under study including scramjet and combined-cycle engines. Will be designed for launch from multiple platforms: aircraft (Rafale, FCAS), surface ships, and submarines. A multinational effort led by France with participation from multiple European nations. Concept studies ongoing with technology maturation expected through the late 2020s.
Operators
- France
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Italy
Related air Weapon Systems
- IAI Kfir C2/CE - Fighter Aircraft (Israel)
- IAI Harpy - Anti-Radiation Loitering Munition (Israel)
- Alpagu - Mini Loitering Munition (Türkiye)
- F/A-18E/F Super Hornet - Multirole Fighter (United States)
- Su-34 Fullback - Strike Fighter (Russia)
- B-52H Stratofortress - Strategic Bomber (United States)
- Boeing MQ-28A Ghost Bat - ucav (United States)
- Vector Drone - uav (Germany)
- Bayraktar TB3 - Ship-Launched Armed UAV (Türkiye)
- Saab JAS 39E/F Gripen (F-39E/F Brazil) - fighter (Sweden)