A1 interceptor airframes during fabrication phase.

The A1 Interceptor — Anti-Ballistic and Hypersonic Missile Defence — Part II

The A1 interceptor is a single stage, liquid fuel rocket using IRST detection and existing air defence radar detection capabilities.

The rocket derives from ARCA’s EcoRocket Universal Propulsion Module (UPM). The engine’s exhaust gases are only water vapours and oxygen, at temperatures of 80oC. This makes the interceptor immune to IR tracking, while allowing the launch from the DA centre with minimal impact on the surrounding assets and personnel.

The A1 interceptor is built entirely from composite materials that are radio transparent, and therefore have a low radar signature.

Another interesting feature of the A1 interceptor is the generation of a substantial amount of water vapours. Because of the interceptor’s close proximity to the defended area, these vapours could provide a welcomed added decoy against the attacking vehicles that use optical guidance systems.

The interceptor have no onboard electronics, and the whole firing sequence and flight is performed via electromechanical systems. This makes it virtually immune to electronic warfare action.

Also, salvos of A1 interceptors could be fired to increase the kill and deception probability.