Halcon Unveils Advanced Guided Missile Systems at IDEX 2025
At the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, Halcon, a prominent division of the EDGE Group's Missiles and Weapons Cluster, introduced two cutting-edge guided missile systems: the G70 and the G120. These developments underscore Halcon's commitment to enhancing defense capabilities through innovative technology.
G70: Man-Portable Precision
The G70 is a 70mm man-portable guided missile system designed to provide modernized capabilities akin to the traditional RPG-7. This laser beam-riding missile boasts an operational range from 700 meters (with self-designation) up to 4,000 meters (with external designation), traveling at speeds of 300 meters per second. Weighing approximately 4 kg, the missile is equipped with a 1 kg tandem-shaped charge warhead, ensuring effectiveness against armored targets. The complete system, including a tripod-mounted launch unit with day/night sight, a reusable launch tube, and three missiles, totals just over 22 kg, making it portable for field operations.
Currently, the G70 is in the mid-development stages, with successful flight trials already conducted. Production is anticipated to commence by the end of 2027. Innovations such as a reusable launch tube are being integrated to reduce logistical burdens for operators.
G120: Air-Launched Versatility
The G120 is an air-launched missile system tailored for anti-tank and anti-vehicle missions. Designed to neutralize armored threats effectively, it features advanced dual-targeting capabilities, allowing for both self-designation and remote designation via drone support. This flexibility enhances battlefield adaptability, enabling forces to respond swiftly to dynamic combat scenarios.
The G120 is currently in the concept development phase, with its design leveraging technologies from the G70 project to expedite development and reduce production costs.
SkyKnight: Strengthening Air Defense
In collaboration with Rheinmetall, Halcon is advancing the SkyKnight missile system, the UAE's first indigenous counter-rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM) solution. Designed for integration into Rheinmetall's Skynex air defense system, SkyKnight offers all-weather, multi-target short-range air defense capabilities. The system is engineered to intercept a variety of aerial threats, including fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), as well as incoming rockets, artillery, and mortar shells. Recent flight trials have successfully demonstrated its aerodynamic performance, including complex maneuvers, marking significant progress in its development.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Outlook
Halcon's strategic vision includes international collaborations, exemplified by its partnership with Brazilian firm SIATT. Together, they are co-developing the MANSUP ER missile, intended as a modern replacement for legacy systems like the Exocet Block C. This joint venture combines Halcon's technological expertise with SIATT's market experience, aiming to deliver advanced missile solutions to meet evolving defense requirements.
Looking ahead, Halcon is focusing on integrating emerging technologies to enhance missile guidance systems. Emphasis is being placed on developing robust navigation solutions resilient to Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) denial, incorporating visual-based navigation, and artificial intelligence (AI) to maintain operational effectiveness in contested environments. Sensor fusion techniques are also being explored to combine multiple data sources, ensuring precision and reliability even in GNSS-compromised scenarios.
Halcon's continuous innovation and strategic collaborations position it at the forefront of defense technology, delivering advanced solutions to meet the complex challenges of modern warfare.
