Teal Group Analysis

摘要

The A ASM is a French attempt at a low cost alternative to laser guided bombs and laser guided missiles and is intended to replace both the BGL bombs and AS.30L missiles. There is recognition that such weapons will have significant export potential, and French sources have estimated this to be as high as 10,000 guidance kits. Indeed, the market for such weapons is probably larger than the French domestic market. France and the UK toyed with the idea of a joint program, but Britain has pursued its own program, opting for Enhanced Paveway. The program has suffered from repeated delays in testing, and so production deliveries did not begin until 2007. The AASM has seen initial combat use in Afghanistan and Libya.